Ikebana Tanto: Left-Handed? Signature Meaning, or Maker Name?

wlwhittier

Gold Member
Joined
Jan 21, 2013
Messages
205
View attachment 464874View attachment 464875View attachment 464876View attachment 464877View attachment 464878

Good morning...I have several questions about this particular blade, and about this style of Japanese blade:

First, it appears to have been ground for LH use, and I've not seen that until this blade followed me home; also, the reverse has been relieved in a manner similar to many Japanese woodworking chisels and plane irons. I think I understand the function of such treatment, but my ignorance of much is legendary; it continues to surprise and embarrass me deep into my dotage. Another general question about Japanese blades has to do with the significance (if any) of the angle of the sharpened tip: is there a protocol governing that included angle?

Then, there is the 'signature' appearing on this blade, if that's what it truly is as opposed to a brand-name or another specific identifier (size, type of steel and/or heat treatment, date of manufacture, etc.). A final issue is whether there is an 'inlay' on one or both of the edges. (I'm sure there's a specific word for that type of blade configuration, but I don't know it). I've seen many edged instruments, especially but not exclusively Japanese, that plainly show such bi-metal characteristic; I want to see it here, but the condition of the edges (so far) precludes certainty. If there, it will show eventually as I continue to work towards reasonable sharpness.

Some dimensions: LOA, cased; 7 3/8"; Blade 3 3/4" L X 7/8" W (tapers to 13/16") X .138" T (tapers to .110"); Blade face is slightly convex, and the back is slightly 'hollow', as noted above. It weigh 60.5 grams, cased.

All your comments are welcome, and I thank you for reading my rambling prose. Warren
 
Back
Top