Tanto Ivory Lobster With Cites Certificate. Early Meiji Period, Circa 1858.

Masterpiece, Very rare and exceptional Ivory Tanto carved in the shape of a Lobster from the early Meiji period (1858), with CITES certificate.

Selling price, excluding shipping costs: €4200.

As part of our collection of Japanese art swords, we are delighted to offer for sale this exceptional and very rare Tanto of very high quality in genuine elephant ivory, dating from the early Meiji period, circa 1858, please note, the blade is not removable.

This Tanto is decorated with a beautiful and very fine carving, representing a lobster and waves. This Tanto, which is equipped with a high quality, Japanese-made tempered steel blade, would considerably enhance any serious collection. Following the moratorium on the exploitation of elephant horns, this Tanto is sold, in accordance with the law, with its CITES certificate (Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora).

Koshirae: The Tanto measures approximately 36.3 cm in total length and its scabbard was formed from the end of a horn. The whole is very finely carved in relief, the finish is exceptional and the degree of detail demonstrates the very great skill of the carver.

• The Saya which is made of solid ivory, measures approximately 28 cm long. There is a crack of approximately 6 cm in the Koiguchi (mouthpiece) area
• The Tsuka which is made of solid ivory, measures approximately 10 cm long.
• The Kurigata is carved from the mass
• The octopus Sageo in natural Japanese silk in a “wine bed” color which is installed on the Kurigata of the Saya, contributes to the overall harmony

Blade:
• Is made of forged Tamahagane steel
• Measures approximately 20.5 cm in length
• The Tsukurikomi (shape of the blade) is of the Unokubi Zukuri type
• Has for a Tanto, a strong Sori of approximately 8mm to adapt to the curvature of the horn
• The Suguha type Hamon is present but not very visible.
• The polishing is original and the blade shows traces of oxidation on the entire blade.

Condition: The general condition is superb, there is just a crack of approximately 6cm in length which is visible in the photos, but which does not jeopardize the integrity of the entire Saya.