Item Description
Original Item: Only One Available. Purchased from a collector in Europe, this is a very small tanto or short sword, but due to the 6.5" blade length many would consider it to be a knife. Tanto could be any number of different shapes, depending on the requests of the person who ordered it. The blade is in the typical "Hira Zukuri" shape, which means it is a blade without a shinogi, or ridge typical of longer blades. It comes as a complete set with lacquered decorative scabbard, which has a slot for the included Kogai, as well as a beautiful dark blue sageo cord, which would be used to attach the scabbard to the waist or elsewhere.
The blade is old, we are told ancient, due to a few tell tale characteristics that are:
- The hole in the tang (meguki-ana) is punched, and not drilled
- Folded steel blade - fold lines are evident on the body and spine of blade, as well as grain typical of folded steel.
- Visible temper line ("hamon") running full length of blade cutting edge. Steel crystals (nie and nioi) are visible.
- Hada or Grain is visible throughout the blade surface.
Offered in excellent condition with only spots of discoloration, the blade is still sharp and does not have any visible nicks. Blade length is approximately 6 1/2" and overall length 10 1/4". This falls within the recognized length for tanto of 5.9–11.8 inches. Handmade blade, with punched mounting hole tang. Multiple temper lines visible throughout the blade. The Kozuka (grip) is tight on the tang to and in good condition and is highly decorative. The Kogai (hair arranger) is nickel plated brass, and designs have been engraved into the handle.
The Kurikata (scabbard knob) is in excellent condition, and has a decorative brass fitting inside. The Saya (scabbard) is in very good condition, and has a decorative textured finish. It is a great matched set that goes with the handle. Overall this is a great chance to add and interesting handmade Japanese short sword to your collection.
It has been over one thousand years ago that the art of making swords appeared in Japan. The swordsmiths of the time may not have known it but they were creating a legendary sword. The Samurai sword has seen combat in many battlefields. From the early days of the Samurai warrior to the fierce battles in the South Pacific during WWII.
Each hand-made Samurai sword is unique because it is forged from steel stock. A tremendous amount of work is dedicated to creating these pieces. They were an instrument of war as much as a beautiful artifact to adorn a room.
The Samurai sword has grown to be one of the most highly desired military antiques.
- This product is available for international shipping.
- Eligible for all payments - Visa, Mastercard, Discover, AMEX, Paypal & Sezzle
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