This dagger was equipped with an aikuchi koshirae, and its blade is so beautiful that it could be mistaken for a current piece.
Its preservation is extremely good, with no flaws, chips, rust, or other defects, and the entire sword is very sound. The jigane is well packed with itame hada, and the yubashiri is very active. The hamon is well burnished with niedeki gnome, and the ashi are well attached. The blade is 7.3 mm thick and powerful and heavy. The name Kozuke no suke Sugawara Kanemune is engraved on the front of the Nakago, and the annals of Bunkyu Ninen Kugatsubi are engraved on the back.
Kanemune was a descendant of the Yamato Tegai school of swordsmiths and was active during the Edo period. The inscription on the back is engraved as September of the second year of Bunkyu, so September 1862 is when this tanto was made.
The koshirae is in the aikuchi style, and the tsuka is called dashizame with the tsukasame in its bare state. The metal fittings are suaka, copper made with the smelting technology of the time. The color has become very nice through time.
The kojiri is decorated with a heart mark pattern called inome. In Japan, the inome mark represents the eye of a boar and has the meaning of a talisman to ward off evil and bring good fortune. The kogai is also equipped, but it is most likely not original, as it does not match the pocket size of the scabbard.
Still, overall, this aikuchi koshirae is a very good match for the sword's body.
Make this gorgeous tanto your own, with a superbly preserved sword body and a wonderful aikuchi koshirae.
Please contact us if the katana you are looking for is not listed here.
The quality of the blade and the simplicity of the shirasaya mount truly reflect traditional Japanese mastery. A beautiful and meaningful addition to my collection.
The natural wood finish and clean design highlight the beauty of the blade perfectly. Exactly what I was looking for.
Every blade reflects generations of knowledge, discipline, and precision passed down through traditional Japanese swordmaking. From the forging of steel to the final finishing touches, each piece is shaped with patience, mastery, and deep respect for heritage.
From carefully selected materials to the refined finishing of every surface, each sword is crafted and presented with uncompromising attention to detail. Our commitment to authenticity ensures every piece reflects true tradition, lasting quality, and enduring cultural value.
Designed with balance, simplicity, and purpose, our blades embody the harmony between refined form and skilled craftsmanship. Each sword represents a thoughtful union of strength, elegance, and the timeless discipline of Japanese artisans.
