Ogon Ki - 1469 (mid-15th century)
"Golden Wood"
Status
sold
Price
-
Description
Forged in 1469 by Oishi-Sa, a direct disciple of the legendary Saimonji—one of the Ten Great Students of Masamune—Ogon Ki (Golden Wood) is a masterpiece tanto both in blade and presentation. Though the blade is 9 inches long, it is housed in a longer wakizashi-style saya, disguising its true size. This allowed the samurai to carry it on the left like a midsize sword, yet draw it quickly in close combat with deadly surprise. The blade features a dual hamon—beginning with a madare (wave) pattern and transitioning into a straight suguha. The koshirae is equally captivating: grooved walnut with gold and copper accents, ornate Buddhist plant tendril motifs symbolizing long life, and a unique belt hook placement that suggests it was worn for display and prestige. A rare piece with distinguished lineage, graceful design, and a backstory of battlefield strategy and later vanity—ideal for collectors of exceptional tanto with character and provenance.
The Story
Forged by a smith in Masamune’s direct lineage, this deceptive tanto masked in wakizashi form offered surprise on the battlefield and status off it. Its design and lineage make it an elite piece of samurai history.
