Beautiful Antique Japanese carved bone letter openers in the form of tanto daggers

Beautiful Antique Japanese carved bone letter openers in the form of tanto daggers Look like new Collectors delight 11 inches long Curio values them at $300-$500 The tanto is a traditional Japanese dagger, historically used by the samurai class. Its design evolved over centuries, becoming a symbol of status and a functional weapon. In later periods, particularly during the Edo and Meiji eras, decorative and functional items like letter openers were sometimes crafted in the form of traditional weapons, often utilizing materials like ivory or bone for their intricate carving possibilities. Carving in ivory and bone, known as 'netsuke' and other decorative arts, flourished in Japan, especially from the Edo period onwards. Artisans developed highly refined techniques to depict figures, animals, and scenes with remarkable detail. These carved items were often exported, becoming popular collectibles in the West, particularly during the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

Condition

Used (normal wear)