This is a flamboyant, ultra-rare, and exquisite shamisen with a stunning tiger stripe pattern that runs 360 degrees around the entire instrument, from the tenjin (head) to the sao (neck) and nakago (tang). The tiger stripes appear to float and shimmer depending on the viewing angle, creating a very fantastical and beautiful effect. This is a top-quality shamisen that will appeal to connoisseurs. It's difficult to convey this in photos; you really need to see it with your own eyes to appreciate its splendor. Furthermore, it has a beautiful display of gold dust and gold thread, and it's a hard, dense wood that feels substantial in your hands. The dou (body) has been carefully and delicately carved with a komochi ayasugi (child-bearing ayasugi) pattern, and the annual rings are also very prominent, making it a superb piece. You will likely rarely encounter such a masterpiece. Please also take a look at the other shamisen being offered by others. After you've looked, please come back to us. It's obvious that the quality is different. ※ This is a sale of the sao (neck) and dou (body) only. Please prepare the other parts, such as the tuning pegs and skin, and accessories like the dougake (body cover) and case, to your liking. Total Length: Approximately 102 cm Sao (Neck) Two grooves on the top, two grooves with a step on the bottom (exquisite gold detailing) Face Width: Approximately 3.0 - 3.1 cm Thickness: Approximately 3.35 cm Depth: Approximately 3.45 cm Dou (Body) Exquisite komochi ayasugi dou, Gobu-dai (five-minute size) I have taken care of it regularly, so although it is used, it doesn't feel old, and both the sao and dou are glossy overall, and the metal fittings are also shining. There may be some minor scratches and scuffs, but there are no noticeable scratches, and I feel that the condition is good and can be described as a beautiful item. Unlike shamisen for practice or everyday use, this is an exceptional piece, so it hasn't been used frequently or heavily. The depth is the same as when it was new, and I believe it can be used for a lifetime. The sao surface has no kanberi (wear) and I feel it is in a sufficiently beautiful condition. However, I believe that there are individual differences in how it is perceived, so please check the images. (I have deliberately taken the photos without strings so that the condition of the sao surface is easier to see.) ※ In addition, I believe that there are no major defects in the current condition. However, this item is a used item. I have made an effort to express the item through many images and descriptions, but it is impossible to fully convey its appeal and condition through the images and descriptions alone. Therefore, there is a possibility of overlooking subtle scratches, chips, thin cracks, etc., or that there may be areas that are of concern or not of concern depending on individual differences. In that case, please purchase only if you agree to the premise that you will maintain and adjust it yourself.