Description:

East Asia, Japan, Momoyama period, ca. late 16th century CE. A tanto accompanied by an official appraisal certificate (kanteisho) and oshigata, a traditional ink rubbing of the tang. The unsigned (mumei) blade is attributed to the Bizen Osafune school, specifically to the lineage of Sukesada. Mounted in a complete koshirae, this weapon features a polished black lacquered scabbard (saya) and a tsuka wrapped in dark brown cord (ito), accented by a pair of gilt-brass lion-dogs (komainu) as menuki - auspicious guardian beasts. The seppa (spacers), tsuba (guard), fuchi - with a relief beast, and kashira (pommel) with a bamboo motif- are all copper. The tsuba has a notch to accommodate a kozuka knife (now missing), with a corresponding groove along the saya for the knife's insertion. Size in saya: 16.6" L x 1.75" W (42.2 cm x 4.4 cm); blade: 9.25" L x 0.75" W (23.5 cm x 1.9 cm)

Provenance: private Las Vegas, Nevada, USA collection

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#195088

  • Condition: Blade is sharp handle with care. Some minor pitting and patina to blade and copper elements. Menuki charms are glued to the surface. Comes with certificate (kanteisho). Saya sheath is modern, in great condition. Comes with cloth storage bag.

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June 27, 2025 8:00 AM MDT
Louisville, CO, US

Artemis Fine Arts

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Bid Increments
From: To: Increments:
$0 $299 $25
$300 $999 $50
$1,000 $1,999 $100
$2,000 $4,999 $250
$5,000 $9,999 $500
$10,000 $19,999 $1,000
$20,000 $49,999 $2,500
$50,000 $99,999 $5,000
$100,000 $199,999 $10,000
$200,000 + $20,000