Odd Tanto

This tanto was confiscated by Korean goverment while being brought into the country. Later sold at an auction in a lot of 1000 swords to an american investor. Has extensive pearl inlays in mahogany handle and sheath. High polish 13" etched blade. Had made with no markings. Anyone know what it might be worth? Hope this image works first time I've tried this.
View
 

It's really hard to tell with the picture, but my first instinct is that it isn't Japanese. Blade isn't quite right, the hamon(what little I could see of it)looks artificial, there is no habaki, I don't think there is a mekugi ana, plus I don't believe that the Japanese are big users of Mahogany. When you said there were no markings, does that include on the tang? This is...of course...just my uneducated opinion
smile.gif


------------------
KSwinamer
 
There are no visible markings, other than hand etched pattern on blade. Have not tried to remove the handle. All of the mother of pearl inlay is real and the pearl is engraved with etching.
 

I must say though, that is really nice pearl, there's gold lip in there!! Puuuurrtttyyy
smile.gif


------------------
KSwinamer
 


Oh and one other question. Is the blade curved? In the picture it looks curved but the saya(sheath) doesn't. And I second not2sharp's question on a close up on the blade itself.

------------------
KSwinamer
 
Sorry this is the only pic I have of it right now. When the knife is in the sheath the whole thing has a slight curve. The blade appears to be more tapered than curved, with more taper on the bottom edge. Thanks for your input. Any thought on the value?
 

Well, we're probably talking at least $100+ of Mother of pearl, but with out more info on the rest of it, that's about all I can offer, sorry.

------------------
KSwinamer
 
Are you sure thats mahogany? the grain doesn't look open enough in the photo. Might it be oiled teak?

Jake
 
Not real sure it is mahogany thats what the guy I got it from thought. Wood is close grained with a lot of dark streaks running length wise. Has a couple of knots. Very figured wood.
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top