Mukade 百足 Centipede Kozuka

The “kozuka” is the handle of a small knife carried in the “koshirae” (accessories) called “kogatana” and is integrated into Japanese “nihonto” culture, both as a status object and as a utensil. The “kozuka” is generally integrated into the “koshirae” of the sword, being stored in the sheath and in a recess of the “tsuba” (handguard). The “kozuka” is a tool that was added for functional use, sometimes alongside a “kogai” hairpin. During the rather stable Edo period, the decoration of the "kozuka" and other sword accessories expanded greatly and many hilts can be found in a wide variety of decorations and materials such as bronze, iron, gold and silver.

This example: A slim, elegant and subtle design with a traditional background. The “mukade” centipede (百足) is a symbol of aggression and courage in battle. The centipede only moves forward and that is why it was considered a powerful symbol of courage among the samurai. During the "Warring States" (Sengoku) period, from the 15th to 17th centuries, the centipede was considered a symbol of victory due to its aggression. “Mukade” is also known among civilians as a sign of increasing wealth, good sales and a large number of customers. The “mukade” was therefore favored by both samurai and merchants.

Condition: Very good, some light items due to its age. Dimensions: Length: 9.2 cm Width: 14 mm Thickness: 4 mm Weight: 28gr.

Comparable examples: – The Walters Art Museum, Baltimore acc.nr.51.651 – The Metropolitan Museum of Art New York, gilt copy with Mukade acc.nr.43.120.612 – “Deadly Elegance” by Joe Earle. The Art of Fitting Samurai Swords, p. 83 (signed Goto Mitsuyasu).