Kannaba Japanese Smoothing Plane Blade By Tanaka Shoichiro - 65mm

This blade was made by Tanaka Shoichiro after he was appointed as the "Go-ban Kaji-shi" (Master Smith in Residence) in the 30th year of the Showa era (1955). While it is difficult to confirm whether this specific blade was forged on-site during the ceremony or produced shortly after as part of a commemorative series for sale, its historical significance remains profound.

The inscription on the right side of the blade, "三木金物神社奉納/Miki Kanamono Jinja Honō" (Dedicated to Miki Hardware Shrine), originates from a tradition established in 1948 (Showa 23). In that year, an "Ancient Style Forging Site" was constructed in front of the Miki Kanamono Shrine, marking the beginning of the "Hi-ire-shiki" (Fire-lighting Ceremony) held during the Fuigo-matsuri (Bellows Festival).

During this sacred ritual, a blacksmith—selected from among the local makers of saws, chisels, planes, trowels, and knives for both their exceptional skill and integrity—is honored as the "Go-ban Kaji-shi." They perform a demonstration of ancient forging techniques as an offering (Honō) to the deities, praying for the safety and prosperity of the Miki hardware industry.

References: 「三　木　金　物　神　社」