Kenukigata Tachi Style Sword -Rare Tanto -Kaigata Saya -Edo Period FOR SALE

[matthewbrice]

Kenukigata Tachi Style Sword -Rare Japanese Tanto -Kaigata (Oar-shaped) Saya FOR SALE

 

An exceptionally rare kenukigata tachi–style Japanese sword is now available. This Edo period utsuchi (tribute sword) faithfully recreates a National Treasure kenukigata tachi from the Heian period in tanto size.

 

A kenukigata tachi features a distinctive mekugi-ana shape in the nakago. Kenukigata translates to “tweezers shape” in Japanese, which clearly describes the openwork form.

 

This tanto shares the graceful sori (curvature) of an early tachi and closely mirrors that elegant profile. The blade displays a fine hamon and remains in excellent polish. The mumei blade measures 12 1/4″ (31.1 cm) in nagasa.

 

The kaigata (oar-shaped) saya further enhances the presentation. Notably, it features a kurikata carved in the form of seashells. The mounts include a leather tsuba. 

 

 

Historical Context: Kenukigata Tachi

 

The kenukigata tachi represents a rare and early Japanese sword style from the Heian period (794–1185). Craftsmen forged these swords from a single piece of steel, piercing the tang (nakago) with an opening that resembles tweezers (kenuki). Consequently, they stand as a crucial transitional form in Japanese sword development and serve as ceremonial predecessors to the traditional tachi and later katana.

 

Key Features and Significance

Design:
These blades incorporate an openwork handle formed as part of the blade itself. Rather than attaching a separate wooden hilt secured by a mekugi peg, the user gripped the integrated tang directly or wrapped it lightly. As a result, the design reflects an early stage in sword mounting evolution.

 

History:
Swordsmiths developed the kenukigata form during the mid-Heian period, evolving it from the earlier warabitetō swords of the Tohoku region. Therefore, historians regard it as a prototype of the curved Japanese tachi.

 

Usage:
High-ranking imperial guards (Efu) primarily carried these swords for ceremonial purposes. Elite warriors also wore them as symbols of rank and prestige. 

 

Condition

This fine kenukigata tachi–style sword remains in beautiful polish. Importantly, the blade shows no openings (ware) whatsoever.. Additionally, the lacquer exhibits only occasional small dents consistent with age. Overall, this antique Edo period piece presents exceptionally well and retains outstanding collector appeal.

 

 

$3400 plus shipping w/payment via check, Zelle, Venmo, bank wire (add 3% if paying via PP or credit card)

 

 

Visit StCroixBlades.com for more photos

 

[ChrisW]

I've seen this piece in person, its certainly a very interesting example of an ancient form of blade rarely seen otherwise!