Princess & The Warrior - 1583 (blade), 17th century (koshirae)

Description

This tanto carries a 1583 blade forged by the well-regarded smith Kanemoto. Unusually, it is mounted in an elegant 17th-century wedding koshirae, once belonging to a princess and later inherited by a warrior descendant—giving it the affectionate name 'Princess & The Warrior.' The koshirae features detailed **makie** gold lacquer with symbols of long life and prosperity (crane, wheat, spirals), and a **kojiri** and **fuchi/kashira** in matching etched iron with gold-filled veins. It includes a signed **kogatana** with a signed blade (very rare), depicting traditional symbols of luck: the god Hotei, a silver deer, golden antlers, and more. The tanto blade itself is just under 9", with a thick spine made for piercing armor—known as a leather piercer. It features a rare hamon style for Kanemoto, possibly experimental, and a combination copper/brass habaki. One side of the blade has a double groove, the other a single. This intergenerational piece stands out for its artistry, layered story, and incredibly preserved elements. One of the finest values among all offerings.