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"Japanese Koto Tanto by Kanekuni with Samurai-Themed Koshirae (SW1983) Guns International #: 103309319 Seller's Inventory #: SW1983 Category: Edged Weapons Pre 1900 - Collectibles - Asian Seller's Information When emailing or calling sellers direct, please mention that you saw their listing on GunsInternational.com Seller: Collectors Firearms Company: CollectorsFirearms, Inc Member Since: 3/6/07 First Name: E-commerce Last Name: Department State: Texas Zip: 77063 Country: United States Phone: (713) 575-5814 Fax: (713) 781-6407 Platinum Seller Number of Active Listings: 8125 Seller: FFL Dealer Return Policy: 3 day inspection and return policy on used guns. Payment Types Accepted: M/C, VISA, American Express and Discover Description: "This is a fine Japanese tanto signed “Kanekuni" (??) of the Mino tradition, dating to the Koto period (late Muromachi, 16th century). The blade measures 12.125 inches (30.8 cm) and is mounted in elaborate Edo-period samurai-themed koshirae.  Blade  The tanto is forged in hira-zukuri form with a wide body and elegant proportions. The hamon is an active gunome-midare with strong activity and a sweeping kaeri extending well back onto the mune. The hada is visible in the ji, showing a flowing itame typical of Mino workmanship. The tang is ubu, signed Kanekuni (??), with two mekugi-ana — the lower mekugi-ana reinforced with a metal collar insert, a feature seen on older blades re-mounted for continued use. The nakago retains a deep, even patina, with clear chisel work on the mei.  Koshirae  The mounts are of very high quality, themed around the samurai warrior: • Saya: Ribbed lacquer saya with kozuka slot, retaining excellent finish. • Kozuka: Shakudo with nanako ground, decorated in gilt and copper with a procession of armored samurai; signed on the reverse. • Fuchi-kashira: Iron with gilt inlay. The kashira features a warrior in full armor with bow and yari, while the fuchi depicts complementary martial motifs. • Menuki: Finely detailed gilt shishi (lion-dogs) on shakudo, mounted under samegawa grip. • Tsuba: Iron with nanako ground and gilt inlay, decorated with battle and landscape elements in high relief. • Kashira (pommel): Decorated with a gilt armored samurai in dramatic pose. • Kojiri (butt of saya): Decorated with gilt motifs including a squirrel and vine. • Other fittings: Matching gilt and shakudo elements, all unified in theme and execution. • Habaki: A well-fitted solid gold habaki adds both value and prestige.  Commentary  This tanto is a superb example of the artistry of the Mino tradition combined with Edo-period koshirae craftsmanship. The blade, signed Kanekuni, represents Koto period work from the Sengoku era, while the koshirae showcases later Edo decorative metalwork at its finest. The reinforced mekugi-ana reflects its practical use and re-mounting across generations. Together, the signed blade, luxurious mounts, and gold habaki create a tanto of both martial heritage and high artistic appeal.  Price: $9,500.00