Tantō by Yoshihara Yoshindō
Heisei Period, 2009 — Tokyo
With NBSK Certificate
Yoshihara Yoshindō, was born in Tokyo in 1943 (Shōwa 18) into one of the most respected modern swordsmith families in Japan.
From a young age he and his younger brother Yoshihara Shōji were trained in the art of traditional swordmaking by their grandfather, Yoshihara Kuniie (first generation).
Through this lineage Yoshindō inherited the techniques and philosophy of classical Japanese sword forging, preserving centuries-old traditions while developing his own refined artistic style.
In 1982 (Shōwa 57), at the age of thirty-nine, Yoshindō received his official swordsmith license and began producing swords independently.
Over the following decades he became internationally recognized as one of the most important contemporary makers of traditional Japanese swords.
His reputation was further confirmed in 2004 (Heisei 16), when he was designated an Intangible Cultural Heritage by the Tokyo Metropolitan Government.
His blades are held in important museum collections, including the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York and the Museum of Fine Arts in Boston, demonstrating the international recognition of his work.
In addition to his achievements as a craftsman, Yoshindō has played an important role in promoting Japanese sword culture worldwide.
Through forging demonstrations, lectures, and exhibitions abroad, he has helped introduce the art and history of the Japanese sword to international audiences.
Although he is still alive today, Yoshindō has ceased active sword production, making his existing works increasingly sought after by collectors.
This tantō, forged in 2009, features one of Yoshindō’s distinctive artistic carvings: a Byakko, or White Tiger, engraved on the front of the blade.
The Byakko is one of the Four Sacred Beasts in East Asian mythology and symbolizes strength, protection, and courage.
On the reverse side appears the inscription “Kakesenri”, meaning “Run a thousand miles.” The phrase refers to the traditional proverb that a tiger can run a thousand miles and return a thousand miles in a single day, expressing vitality, determination, and boundless energy.
The blade was polished by Yoshihiko Usuki, a master polisher who holds Mukansa status, indicating a craftsman whose skill is considered beyond competition ranking.
The tantō is accompanied by an elegant custom koshirae commissioned directly from Yoshindō by a collector.
The tsuka features high-quality samegawa with coral menuki accents, while the lacquered saya was produced by a professional lacquer artist.
Such mountings require the collaboration of multiple master craftsmen and represent a significant artistic investment.
The sword is accompanied by an NBSK certificate, confirming its authenticity and quality.
Together, the blade and its exceptional mounting form a refined and highly collectible example of modern Japanese sword craftsmanship.
