【Important Notice】 Please make sure to check whether you can import the sword into your country before placing a bid. If you win the auction but are unable to import the item due to your country's regulations, we cannot be held responsible. Additionally, as the item will be shipped by sea, it will take at least 4 months from the time of export approval to its arrival. Item Description This exquisite Ko-Karasumaru (small Karasumaru) tanto is a fine example of traditional Japanese swordsmithing, attributed to the renowned craftsman Sanjo Munechika from the Heian period. The blade features an intricate engraving of a nobori-ryu (ascending dragon) and bonji (Sanskrit characters), symbolizing power and spiritual protection. The blade's hamon (temper line) showcases a beautifully detailed midareba (irregular pattern), highlighting the nie (crystalized particles) along the edge. This tanto is housed in a simple yet elegant shirasaya (plain wooden scabbard) to protect the blade's condition. The overall craftsmanship, coupled with the historical significance of the Heian period, makes this tanto a collector's treasure. Size Full Length: 38.2 cm Blade Length: 35.1 cm Cutting Edge (Hamon): 23.0 cm Curvature (Sori): 0.1 cm Motohaba (Base Width): 2.59 cm Sakihaba (Tip Width): 1.30 cm Motokasane (Base Thickness): 0.40 cm Sakikasane (Tip Thickness): 0.23 cm Weight With Mounting: 266 g Artist Profile Swordsmith: Sanjo Munechika is a highly respected swordsmith from the Heian period, known for producing masterpieces of exquisite quality and spiritual significance. His works are prized among collectors and historians. NOTICE Since swords cannot be shipped by air, they will be sent via Japan Post's sea mail. After the auction, we will first obtain an export permit from the Agency for Cultural Affairs, which takes about one month. Following that, the sea shipment will take approximately three months. Therefore, it will take at least four months from the time of auction to the arrival of the item. Please also be aware that international circumstances, shipping conditions, and customs procedures may cause further delays. Import duties, taxes, and charges are not included in the item price or shipping cost. These charges are the buyer's responsibility. Sometimes Customes or delivery company in your country contact you for Customs clearance via phone or email. Please make sure that you could answer the phone. If you don't, the parcel will return to me and it cost more double shipping fee for reshipping. I appreciate your cooperation.