Japanese Tanto Signed “Onikatsu August 1795”

The tanto has an overall length in the scabbard of approximately 20 inches, with a blade length of approximately 11 inches. The blade is quite clean, and while showing expected signs of age it is without nicks, chips, or active rust, and it displays a fine visible temper line and wood grain finish. The tang is signed on one side “Onikatsu” and “August 1795” on the other. The sharkskin grip is wrapped in the traditional fashion in dark blue fabric. Each side of the grip bears a menuki of a lion, while the ferrule is also ornamented with figures which appear to include a tiger. The upper side of the pierced guard is red in color, as is the ribbed wooden sheath. Overall the tanto is in excellent condition.