Small tanto with curious mei

[Ron STL]

I'm posting this under nihonto instead of translation help (Brian, switch this around if you wish). We have been trying to figure out who signed this small tanto, but also if this would be a miniature copy or possibly a small woman's tanto. The work is very nice quality with notare-midare nioi hamon with clear nioi visiable with a loop. Polish is a little too bright to determine type of forging. The very nice shirasaya shows aging and it too is quality made. As for the mei...that remains a puzzle to me. I thought it might be "(something) naga tada kiyo" but the kiyo for example, lacks all the strokes it should have. My friend who ownes this thought it read (something) masa, masa being the bottom part of what I'm thinking is Tada. A pretty little tanto that the early owner appreciated judging from how it survived the decades. All comments appreciated, as always...especially the correct reading (and identification) of the mei. The tanto measures 14.55 cm nagasa.

Ron STL

[mdiddy]

Looks like the mei says Mondo no sho Masakiyo. Looks dubious.

[Ron STL]

Folks, sorry for duplicate post...first attempt didn't seem to go through so I reposted it.

Mondo

[Uechi]

Anybody have a three dollar bill?

[Brian]

Maybe a child's tanto? I think Ron has been in this game long enough to know a fake from a real blade

If a dedication/child's blade, the inscription may be symbolic.

Interesting shape. Shirasaya well done.

 

Brian

[Ron STL]

Mondo no sho Masakiyo...now I can see and clearly read it. I had my mind set on seeing "tada," not "sho masa..." Certainly not something made by Masakiyo, but still a pretty little piece. As you said Brian, probably a child's tanto signed with a big name. As for that $3 bill, I'll see if I can dig one up for you, Jeffrey. :lol:

Ron STL