During the early 1900's, a new variety of koi was created by the addition of sumi (black) markings to the basic Kohaku patterns of red and white. This new variety was named Taisho Sanke and is also referred to as simply Sanke . The positioning of the sumi accentuates the beauty of the overall pattern.

The beauty of a Sanke lies in the purity of it's white body and the depth and intensity of the red patterns. The edges of the red markings should be crisp and clear against an unblemished white background. The sumi pattern should ha a deep lacquer-like black. This crisp edge is referred to as the "kiwa".

The difference between the Sanke and the Showa is that the Sanke has a white base with red and black markings while the showa has a black base with red and white markings. This is evident in the fins, the Sanke has predominately white fins where the Showa will have black in the fins.