A Nishikigoi (brocaded carp) with a white base adorned by both red (hi) and black (sumi) patterns is called a Taisho Sanke. Together with the Kohaku, it is considered one of the most representative varieties of koi. The basic criteria are:
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Red patches on the head, but no black spots;
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Black stripes on the pectoral fins.
Key Qualities of Taisho Sanke:
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The white base must be pure snow-white, without any yellowish or creamy tones.
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Red patterns should be uniform, intense, and have sharp edges.
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Red patches on the head must not extend into the eyes, nose, or cheeks.
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The tail end (area near the caudal fin) should ideally have white space behind the red pattern.
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Body patterns should be balanced laterally, and the fins should be free of red markings.
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The rear half of the body should not have excessive black spots.
