Japanese Wakizashi with Kogatana Knife and Signed Tsuba

The wakizashi has an overall length in the scabbard of approximately 25 inches, with a blade length of approximately 15 inches. The blade shows typical scratches, surface grime and two very small edge nicks, but with a visible and distinct temper line . The tang has two mounting holes and it is unsigned. The ray skin covered grip is wrapped in the traditional manner in black fabric. Beneath the wrap on each side are figural menuki. The tsuba guard shows a relief dragon within a design of clouds around the rim of the guard, and with bronze wire highlights on the eyes and whiskers of the dragon. The tsuba is signed “Umetada”. The lacquered wood scabbard is slotted for a kogatana, a small utility knife that is fit into the slotted pocket on the scabbard. The grip of this knife displays three toned gilt Paulownia leaves. The blade of the knife shows spots and verdigris, as well as what appear to be kanji, and it retains a visible temper line. The wooden scabbard with textured laquer finish has short splits at the throat, but it is complete and intact.