This publication contains about 4,100 pictures of signatures of about 2,000 Japanese sword fittings artists. Its purpose is to serve as a reference for the comparison of signatures on sword fittings and is thus practical for both the collector and for antique dealers and auction houses. Thus it can also serve well in the run-up as an aid to see if a signature is promising enough to submit the item to shinsa (expert committee) in Japan for a certificate of authenticity.