As part of our Japanese works of art collection we are delighted to offer this most opulent Meiji Period 1868-1912 gold lacquered and shibayama inlaid Koshira,( mounted short sword or Tanto) the gold lacquer body has been finely detailed in semi precious stone and shell inlays detailing Chinese auspicious motifs and characters, one side sits Shoshi reading a scroll whilst seated upon a Dragon with the reverse showing his wife riding a Ho-o bird , the brethtaking quality silver fittings consist of a further Ho-o bird as the pommel as well as finely carved mounts engraved with paulownia throughout, the kozuka handle further decorated with Chinese boys holding a banner. The main body of the gold lacquer scabbard signed in a red lacquer seal that reads Yasu , the quality of the work firmly attributes this piece to Shibayama Yasumasa, his art name Ekiso, an artist known to have produced wares of this calibre, and particularly using this subject matter for the renowned commissioning company headed up by Ozeki Sadajiro.
The Kozuka blade is signed Mondo-no-sho-saku which translates to made by Mondo-no -sho, this being an honorary title used by many swordsmiths and would be difficult to attribute to any particular master .
This opulent and exceptional quality Tanto would grace any fine Japanese arms and armour or Japanese works of art collection.
Condition report :
Exceptional condition throughout.
Approximate Sizes :
Length Overall : 15 3/4″ 40 cm
Length of blade : 9 7/8″ 24 cm
Free worldwide delivery and a certificate of authenticity are included within the price of this item.