Shadow Dancer Itomaki No Tachi

The Itomaki no Tachi is a ceremonial tachi mounting style historically associated with higher ranking individuals. Prominent from the Muromachi period onward, it continued into the Edo period as a dress-sword style for court and formal processions.

Magnificent and resplendent, this Shadow Dancer tachi has a shinogi zukuri (ridge line runs along the blade’s length on both sides) blade forged from tamahagane steel, differentially heat treated, clay tempered, and traditionally Sashikomi polished to reveal a refined suguha (straight) hamon. 

This sword is equipped with blackened brass fittings with gold accents, including a kirikomi mokko gata (lobed with inome notches in the corners), fuchi, kashira, and menuki with kirimon (paulownia crests), signifying good fortune, prestige, and nobility. Historically associated with the imperial family, it was bestowed upon loyal retainers as a recognition of merit. Even today, it remains the official emblem of the Japanese Prime Minister’s office and the Cabinet. Other koshirae include gold-toned brass seppa and habaki.

Following tradition, a single mekugi secures the full tang blade to the wooden core Morozori-style (continuously curved) tsuka. In place of typical samegawa, the handle has a kinran (woven brocade fabric) underlay, elegantly displayed through the diamond openings of the tightly wrapped tsukamaki using silk ito. 

This beautiful masterpiece comes sheathed in a kinriko saya (金梨子地鞘), finished in traditional kin-nashiji (gold pear-skin lacquer), a labor-intensive and prestigious Japanese lacquerwork technique with inlaid gold kirimon motifs. A watarimaki (upper scabbard wrap) matching the hilt braid and a multi-colored sageo complete the tachi’s overall luxurious appearance, making it a beautiful addition to any collection.