Shibayama Inlaid Wood Tanto Koshirae

11.7" Nagasa (Blade Length). 19" overall with Tsuka (Hilt) and Saya (Scabbard). Hira-Zukuri pattern blade with Sugu (Straight) Hamon line mounting matching wood Tsuka and Saya with inlaid scenes of nature and accompanied by a signed Kogatana with gold chrysanthemum and butterfly designs. Tsuka is inlaid with ivory, mother of pearl, and black patinated finish Shakudo. A grasshopper meanders along the right side with a praying mantis adorning the left, both ensconced among smaller insects and branches. A wooden rat perches at the tang, baring its teeth. Saya utilizes the same materials and features a prominent snake design flowing around both sides and edging its way toward a large Cicada perched near the throat. Ivory Mekugi pin has not been removed in order to preserve it.

This lot is located in Cincinnati.