What Is A Taisho Sanshoku Koi (Sanke)?

The Sanke, also known as Taisho Sanshoku, is a type of Koi that shows a tri-coloured pattern. It has a white body with red and black markings. This variety first appeared between 1868 and 1912. In 1915, a 15-year-old Sanke Koi was shown at an event, marking its first public display. For Sanke Koi, the white body, or shiroji, must be bright, milky white with no yellow or flaws. The red markings, called hi, should be opaque, consistently coloured, and have sharp edges known as kiwa and sashi. The red can vary from bright orange to dark red. The black markings (sumi) should also be opaque and have well-defined edges. It’s important to note that juvenile Koi may show blue or grey spots that can turn black as they grow older.