Late Edo Period Hidden Samurai War Fan (Tessen) Iron Fan with Concealed Blade, Signed Mikami Masayoshi

Late Edo Period Hidden Samurai War Fan (Tessen) – Iron Fan with Concealed Blade, Signed Mikami Masayoshi

A remarkable and highly collectible Late Edo period (19th century) artifact, this iron war fan (tessen) represents the refined ingenuity of the samurai class where elegance, discipline, and hidden readiness converge in a single object.

At first glance, the piece presents itself as a solid iron fan, used historically within samurai martial culture (tessenjutsu) for both signaling and defense. The surface is beautifully decorated with a subtle sakura (cherry blossom) motif, symbolizing the transient nature of life—an essential concept within the warrior ethos of the Edo period. The iron has developed a deep, natural patina, reinforcing its authenticity and age.

What makes this example truly exceptional is its concealed blade, seamlessly integrated into the structure of the fan. Hidden within the body is a slender knife, bearing the signature “Mikami Masayoshi saku” (made by Mikami Masayoshi). This confirms that the blade was crafted by a trained smith, elevating the piece far beyond a simple defensive tool into the realm of authentic Japanese sword craftsmanship.

The blade displays a visible hamon, indicating proper differential hardening, and demonstrating that even within this discreet form, traditional forging techniques were applied. Notably, the blade is fixed and cannot be removed, emphasizing its purpose as a concealed and instantly accessible weapon—ideal in environments where carrying a sword was prohibited.

Such hidden weapons were often carried by samurai when attending court, traveling, or entering restricted areas, allowing them to maintain both decorum and protection without drawing attention.

Specifications

• Period: Late Edo period (19th century)
• Type: Hidden samurai war fan (tessen) with concealed blade
• Material: Iron
• Decoration: Sakura (cherry blossom) motif
• Fan dimensions: 30.7 cm × 4.27 cm
• Total length: 27.75 cm
• Blade length: 17.6 cm
• Blade width: 1.88 cm
• Signature: Mikami Masayoshi
• Construction: Blade permanently fixed within the handle

Conclusion

Authentic Edo-period concealed weapons of this type are rarely encountered, and examples bearing a smith’s signature are particularly scarce. This piece stands as a powerful testament to the duality of the samurai refined in appearance, yet ever prepared in function.

A museum-worthy object combining martial tradition, craftsmanship, and historical depth, ideal for the advanced collector of Japanese arms and armor.

Kyodai Originals