Art Gladius Golden Dragon Decorative Tanto – Dragon Motif, Zamak Fittings

Art Gladius Golden Dragon Decorative Tanto – Dragon Motif, Zamak Fittings

Detailed Description and Features:

• Appearance: This tanto embodies power and wealth through the contrasting combination of glossy black and radiant gold. All metal parts are finished in gold colour and feature detailed dragon reliefs.
• Blade: Made from 440 stainless steel. It features a false hamon (imitation temper line) and has a shallow fuller (groove) approximately 20 mm long. The blade is decorative, not sharp (edge thickness only approx. 0.6 mm) and not intended for practical use.
• Handle (Tsuka): Features a traditional construction – it is covered with white faux rayskin (samegawa). A sturdy wrap of brown and black cord (ito) is applied over this. (Note: The original text mentioned a "blue-brown ribbon", but the accompanying photograph clearly shows a brown-and-black combination, which we are describing here). The fittings (fuchi, kashira) and ornaments under the wrap (menuki) are cast from Zamak alloy and bear detailed dragon motifs in gold colour.
• Guard (Tsuba): Cast from Zamak alloy, richly decorated with the motif of a coiled dragon in gold colour.
• Scabbard (Saya): The wooden scabbard has a glossy black lacquer finish. Its dominant feature is a large applied relief of a golden dragon made from Zamak alloy (length approx. 83 mm). It is fitted with ornate mounts (koiguchi, kurikata area, kojiri), also from gold-coloured Zamak alloy with dragon details. The upper part of the scabbard is additionally wrapped decoratively with a brown-and-black cord, and a matching hanging cord (sageo) is also present.
• Dimensions and Weight:
1. Overall length: approx. 385 mm
2. Blade length: approx. 225 mm
3. Tanto weight: approx. 374 g
4. Scabbard weight: approx. 161 g
5. Total weight: approx. 535 g
• Manufacturer: Art Gladius, Toledo, Spain (assumed).

Symbolism:

The golden dragon (Ryū - 竜) dominates the entire design. In Japanese culture, the dragon is a symbol of extraordinary strength, wisdom, longevity, and luck. The gold finish further emphasises its connection to wealth, power, and imperial authority. This tanto is therefore not only a beautiful decoration but also a carrier of strong positive symbolism.

Intended Use:

This Golden Dragon tanto is purely a decorative item. It is ideal for:

• Luxurious display in an interior setting, where it will become a centre of attention (on a stand, in a display case).
• Complementing a collection focused on fantasy, mythology, dragons, or luxuriously decorated weapons.
• An exclusive gift for a special occasion for lovers of oriental culture and symbolism.
• Not suitable for: swordsmanship, training, carrying, cutting, stabbing, or any other practical use.

Guidelines for Safe Storage and Display:

• Although the blade is not sharp, always handle the tanto with care to avoid damaging the detailed decorative elements.
• Ensure stability when displayed and place it out of the reach of children.
• Protect the tanto from falls, impacts, moisture, and direct sunlight.
• The metal parts made from Zamak alloy and the steel blade can be kept clean by wiping with a soft, dry cloth, possibly using a little preservation oil to maintain the shine and protect against corrosion.

The Golden Dragon Decorative Tanto by Art Gladius is a lavishly adorned piece that celebrates the power and beauty of dragon symbolism. Its detailed craftsmanship and striking gold-and-black combination make it an unmissable and valuable decorative element.