Japanese, Meiji period (1868-1912), Small Carved Tanto Dagger with 7″ blade, Carved Bone Fittings

*Japanese, Meiji period (1868-1912), Small Carved Tanto Dagger with 7″ blade, Carved Bone Fittings*

Approximate measurements: 39.4cm overall (with scabbard), 32.1cm overall (without scabbard), 18cm / 7″ blade (no ricasso).

Japanese bone mounted Tanto dagger, 7 inch cutting edge blade, the mounts carved and engraved with figures within floral borders, Meiji period (1868-1912).

This style, often carried by Samurai women concealed in their kimonos, features meticulously carved handles and scabbards that tell a story. The carvings are believed to depict actual individuals from that period or earlier. The detailed faces in the carvings remain clear and can still evoke the emotions of that time and place.

*Condition*
This is a good carved Tanto with age related wear and tear. The top has a chunk missing (pictured). The guard is worn through to the wood, and the top of the throat is missing most of the bone covering with the wooden interior visible. There is an aged  crack from the throat down a third of the scabbard and a further crack from the base of the scabbard with a small chip/hole, the base of the scabbard also has a small hairline crack. The scabbard fit is loose. The blade has a few minor nicks. Please see photographs as part of the condition report.

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