Yamashiro Tanto Attributed to Ryo Hisanobu Nanbokucho Period

14th/15th century

Of kanmuri otoshi form, with komaru boshi, sugu-ha of ko-nie with some variations, the forging of fine itame with ji-nie; the ubu nakago with indistinct file marks and two mekugi-ana, one elongated, unsigned; in shirazaya; Koshirae: brown and red striated lacquer saya, shakudo nanako Kozuka with a dragon in relief, shakudo nanako Fuchi with gilt waves, horn Kashira, silver menuki of chidori, iron tsuba.

The blade, 26.4cm (10 3/8in). ((3).).

With NBTHK Hozon Token certificate, no.372959.

The kanji Ryo is an abbreviation for Ryokai, a late Kamakura swordsmith working in Yamashiro province. The first generation of that name signed Ryo Hisanobu and others used the same name there and in Buzen province. The present example is identical in form and dimensions to a well known Kamakura period sword signed Ryokai and known as 'Akita Ryokai'.

Source: www.bonhams.com/auctions/15678/lot/236/