Lewis B

Yes, it does look to have been modified slightly. The kissaki might have been tipped or chipped at some point. Some better images of the boshi would be worth acquiring before making a decision.

I really like the fittings on this koshirae. The signed tsuba, fuchi, kashira and menuki would not look out of place on a much higher priced blade. The quality of the workmanship is very clear.

Agreed. So long as we know what we're talking about it's all good. Whats the saying don't let perfect be the enemy of good. In any case I get the impression that some here have dyslexia, making things extra troublesome.

Forging looks a little too proficient for Mino Senjuin. The mitsu mune cannot be ignored, again not a feature for Senjuin. My guess is Yamato Shizu, (after further research, quality is lacking for Shodei work). My final answer is the backup => Naoe Shizu.

Sure, currently exhibited in the Tokyo National Museum and purportedly once owned by Matsudaira lenori (1575-1614), a Samurai lord from Central Japan https://www.instagram.com/p/C0TZLMDpUss/?hl=en&img_index=3 And you're correct it's the gapping gap to the sides and rear that caught my attention. Looking at other high level suits it's not uncommon. Perhaps because these leaders were unlikely to see combat so maybe its a case of comfort over protection.

What makes me curious is the length of the shikoro. Doesn't seem to offer much neck protection even if the kabuto is sitting slightly proud on the stand.

And bronze. It looks really good when polished up.

I’ve seen mino era Tametsugu that share a lot of the features exhibited here. Does the blade have a wide shinogi ji?

My apologies to Kevin. Samonji does indeed refer to a line of Smiths. Founder being Saemon Saburo Yasuyoshi or O-Sa. I particularly like the work of the early generations from this Kyushu-based School.

If you're referring to the one Kirill highlighted that was a Sadayoshi not Samonji. Sadayoshi was his student.

Well it could be a sunobi tanto and they can be well over 30cm. Need to see the blade in its entirety.

From Sesko KUNIYOSHI (国吉), Bunmei (文明, 1469-1487), Bingo – “Bishū Kuniyoshi” (備州国吉), Mihara-school, suguha, gunome, wazamono

It's on the Ha side of the nakago. Given the angle of the strike it could have been struck while in its saya and being worn. Either way not a good day for its owner.

Thanks Colin, it came back on the market so I was wondering where the market was for a piece like this. It is attractive in a rustic kind of way.

Was this for sale in the UK or USA? What was the price (PM me if you prefer)? Any further thoughts on the Mei and general condition?