1) Straight, double edged dagger, 14 1/4 inches overall, with a 10 inch blade showing red enamel accented single fullers. The hilt is one piece gilt brass, with over 95% of the surface covered in cloisonne work, showing animal themes in green, red, purple, orange and blue on a light blue background on the grip, pommel and guard. Similar gold wash and decorative work is present on the sheath, with a number of birds and flowers in the same colors on a matching background. Also included are three tsuba; 2) oval iron tsuba, 2 1/2 inches wide by 2 3/4 inches long, with a cut-through engraved dragon in flight accented with gold inlaid lightning. 3) Four-lobed bronze tsuba, 2 1/2 inches wide and 2 3/4 inches long, with raised floral patterns on a dotted background on the edge and raised temple dogs and flower vines on the top and bottom. 4) Four-lobed iron tsuba, 2 3/8 inch wide and 2 5/8 inches long, with cut through floral designs. Provenance: The William Ashby Collection

1) Very good. The blade shows a mixed gray patina, with polishing marks and spotting. A thin chip is absent from the side of the hilt, along with some mild cracks and bubbles overall. The color and finish of the enamel is excellent. Tsuba: 4 is good, bright with mild pitting, installed in a silver finished brass frame to serve as a buckle. 2 and 3 are both very good to excellent, with an attractive brown color, modest wear on the high edges and finely executed decoration.