Aikuchi, Japan, circa 1800 General view

Aikuchi (knife) in steel, copper, wood, fabric, and shagreen. A very solid and straight blade with a single edge. It is of Notare caliber and is signed Nahotane, dated Tempo year 10 (1839). The mount also dates back to the 19th century. The back is beveled. A 3.5 inches (9 cm) hollowed groove stops at the reinforcement plate of the heel on one side. There are also two fine grooves. The handle is decorated with black laces and carved metal embossed appliqués and is made from white shagreen. There is a cat's head with long, gold-encrusted ears. The sheath is made from lacquered wood: red motifs on a sanded background, golden butterflies on the appliqués. No Tsuba. Menuki: rabbit (symbol of the moon). Sheath: Warikogai in two symmetrical sections. Kogatana: with two threads and inscriptions. It is signed Masachide. Watizashi decoration and its sheath: floral, in the Damascene style on a black background (Kashira, fuchi, kogai sleeves, and kogatana, strap-holder, groove, and snap).