Japanese Samurai Tanto Short Sword Signed "Tomoyuki" c15th-18th Century LS#008

Signed Japanese Tantō — 友行 (Tomoyuki)
Muromachi to Edo period

This Japanese short sword (tantō) bears the signature 友行 (Tomoyuki) on its tang, linking it to a lineage of swordsmiths active from the Muromachi through the Edo period. The blade is of classic form, single-edged with a straight temper line (suguha), and shows the patina of age along its surface. While the exact smith cannot be attributed with certainty, the name Tomoyuki appears in multiple provincial traditions, making this an evocative example of the breadth of Japanese sword making.

The koshirae (mountings) are particularly distinctive. The scabbard and hilt are fashioned from dark polished wood capped with horn, lending the piece a rustic yet elegant appearance. Inlaid gourd motifs, symbolic of longevity and good fortune, are set into both the scabbard and grip. A small oni mask fitting further enriches the decoration, a talismanic image intended to protect the bearer. Together, these elements create a striking aesthetic, blending natural motifs with supernatural guardianship.

The blade and fittings remain intact, with some surface wear and age-appropriate patina. The horn fittings show rich color variation, while the decorative inlays remain firmly set. The overall presentation demonstrates both practical utility and ornamental care, showing how samurai swords often served as personal expressions of identity and taste.

For collectors, this tantō offers insight into the intersection of craftsmanship and symbolism in Japanese arms. The signed blade provides a connection to the smithing traditions of Tomoyuki, while the mountings reflect Edo-period cultural taste in symbolic ornament. As a whole, it stands as both weapon and artwork — a piece that was carried for protection, adorned for meaning, and preserved as heritage.

Details

• Smith/Signature: 友行 (Tomoyuki)

• Date/Period: Likely Muromachi–Edo (15th–18th century)

• Medium: Steel blade; wood, horn, brass, inlays

• Blade Length:  8"  Width = 1"  Overall Length = 14 1/4"

• Mountings: Wooden scabbard and grip capped with horn; inlaid gourd motifs; decorative metal oni mask

• Condition: Blade with surface wear and age patina; mountings intact with expected wear

LS008

Item Card

Tantō signed “Tomoyuki” (友行)
Japan, likely Muromachi to Edo period
Steel blade; wood and horn mounts with carved and inlaid details

Blade length: approx. 9 in.
Provenance: Collection of Len Sorese

LS008

Museum Card

Tantō signed “Tomoyuki” (友行)
Japan, Muromachi to Edo period (15th–18th century)
Steel, wood, horn, brass, inlay
Blade length: approx. 9 in.

This short sword is signed 友行 (Tomoyuki) on the tang (nakago). While multiple smiths across regions and centuries used the name, the workmanship suggests a later Muromachi to Edo attribution. The fittings are notable: dark wooden scabbard and hilt capped with horn, with inlaid gourds and applied metalwork, including a small decorative oni mask. The combination of carved horn, gourd motifs, and inset ornament makes the mounts both practical and expressive. The blade shows age with surface wear and a visible straight temper line. The piece exemplifies the layered artistry of Japanese sword furniture joined to a signed blade.

LS008