Kozuka, Harvest Man

The kozuka is the hilt of a small knife carried in the koshirae (accessories) called kogatana and is integrated into Japanese nihonto culture, both as a status item and a utensil. The kozuka is usually integrated into the koshirae of the sword, being nestled in the scabbard and in a recess in the tsuba (handguard). The kozuka is an implement 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 underwent a great expansion and many hilts can be found in a wide variety of decorations and materials such as bronze, iron, gold and silver.

This example is a beautiful example of fine craftsmanship, consisting of a brass base, deeply embossed and decorated with gold. The scene depicts an elderly man sitting in a basket suspended from a mountain, likely picking flowers for his golden basket. The decoration is very detailed and highlights the natural shapes of the rocks, vegetation (plants, branches) and a waterfall below. The man's clothing is treated with a metal alloy that gives it an iridescent appearance. The whole is considered a very fine example.

Condition: Very good, some light ware due to its age.

Dimensions:
Length: 9.4cm
Width: 14mm
Thickness: 4mm

Weight: 32gr.