Bidspirit auction | Very Fine Meiji period Japanese

Very Fine Meiji period Japanese tanto knife in aikuchi koshirae - Very Fine Meiji period Japanese tanto knife in aikuchi koshirae (mounting style with no tsuba/guard), features highly ornate mountings. The blade itself might date to an earlier period, as was a common practice. The scabbard is the most prominent feature, covered in a black or dark lacquer with a textured surface and extensively decorated with gold lacquer (makie) designs, likely depicting flowers such as chrysanthemums or paulownia, which were significant motifs in Japanese art. The hilt is covered in rayskin (same) for grip, and has decorative metal fittings (fuchi and kashira) with gilded elements. A blue and white rope (sageo) is tied around the scabbard. The fittings appear to be made of materials like copper alloy or silver and are often part of a set of ornamental mountings known as koshirae Such elaborate daggers were often part of the Samurai's daisho (a pair of swords) or were ceremonial pieces intended for display rather than heavy combat. The intricate craftsmanship, particularly the high-quality gold lacquer work, indicates significant value and a probable provenance from a high-ranking owner or a master craftsman of the period. Total length (inside scabbard if present) : 17 3/8”, Blade length : 9 1/2”. ~ . Detailed condition reports are not included in this catalog. For additional information, including condition reports, please contact us at info@sofedesignauctions.com ***All lots are sold as-is and where is. No statement regarding age, condition, kind, value, or quality of a lot, whether made orally at the auction or at any other time, or in writing in this catalog or elsewhere, shall be construed to be an express or implied warranty, representation, or assumption of liability. All sales are final, and SOFE AUCTIONS do not give refunds. SOFE AUCTIONS ARE PLEASED TO OFFER IN-HOUSE PACKAGING AND SHIPPING SERVICES. PACKAGING SERVICE ONLY: start at $25 and up depending on your item/s. Available IN-HOUSE shipping is within the USA of small, medium, semi-large, NON-FRAGILE items. PLEASE SELECT IN-HOUSE SHIPPING FOR FAST, PROFESSIONAL PACKING AND SHIPPING.SOFE WON'T ship items in glass frames, large fragile items or large sculptures. After paying for your item/s please call SOFE at 469-268-1177, or email us at info@sofedesignauctions.com to request a shipping quote. All item/s will be shipped via UPS or FedEx, FULLY insured, unless insurance declined in writing by the buyer. SOFE AUCTIONS do not use USPS. We do have a list of suggested third-party shippers. Please visit our webpage for a list of recommended shippers.