13th Century Japan: to be a master swordsmith was to hold a position of exceptional respect and authority. Masamune was the supreme practitioner. This was the golden age of the sword.

In the face of Mongol invasions the Emperor's rule had broken down. Great power was held by the Samurai, mercenary warriors who enjoyed high social status and wealth in return for their allegiance.

Famed for their fighting skills, bravery and loyal service, the Samurai followed an ancient code of honour that permeates Japanese society to this day. The way of the sword" - the ancient art of Iaido - was crucial to the Samurai.

Laido focuses on the expert use of the Katana (curved sword) and the discipline of mind and body. We see contemporary students of Iaido learn to unsheath their sword, slay an 'opponent' with one strike, wipe the blood from the blade and return it to its scabbard in one smooth flowing movement.

This is very much in the tradition of the Samurai who were instantly recognisable by their Katanas. Remarkably light and easy to handle, the Katana was an extremely sharp, strong and durable weapon. In the hands of a Samurai they were devastatingly lethal.

The Katana is still a central part of Japanese culture. In their Creation story the Empress Sun God hands her grandson a sword as he descends to rule on earth. The sword was an extension of the warrior's soul. Thus the smiths who crafted these weapons were venerated as priests.

Masamune was Japan's greatest ever swordsmith, his most prolific period coming at the time of the Second Mongol invasion in 1281. The Katanas he crafted had mythical and spiritual qualities. Before commencing work on any blade Masamune would undertake purification rites in a Shinto temple and wore white robes throughout. Achieving a state of mind - or Mushin - during the process, Masamune would 'breathe' his own spirit and will as well as his creativity into a sword.