Lot 218:
Meiji Period Japanese Decorative Tanto with Carved Bone Handle
Sold for: $225
Description
A decorative Japanese short sword, or tanto, featuring a hand-carved bone handle and circular crossguard. The handle is intricately carved with narrative scenes depicting figures in traditional Japanese attire, including a figure in a patterned robe and eboshi hat, set against architectural elements and floral backgrounds. The circular crossguard, or tsuba, is decorated with a carved seigaiha wave motif. The construction includes a brass blade collar, or habaki, copper-alloy spacers, and a brass butt cap. This style of heavily ornamented weaponry was produced in Japan primarily for the Western export market during the late 19th to early 20th centuries. No maker marks or signatures are present on the visible portions of the blade or hilt.
Blade Length: 10 inches
Total Length: 15.5 inches.
Condition report:
The steel blade shows significant surface wear, including numerous fine scratches, areas of dark oxidation, and light pitting, particularly near the hilt. There is no visible hamon, or temper line. The carved bone components exhibit a yellowish patina consistent with age and several stable longitudinal cracks typical of the material. Metal fittings show an aged patina and light surface abrasions. The original scabbard is missing.
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