Who created "Knife Handle (Kozuka)"?

Knife Handle (Kozuka) was created by Gotō Mitsutaka (Enjō) in mid-18th century.

When was "Knife Handle (Kozuka)" created?

This artwork was created mid-18th century.

What medium is "Knife Handle (Kozuka)"?

Knife Handle (Kozuka) is Copper-gold alloy (shakudō), silver.

Is "Knife Handle (Kozuka)" in the public domain?

Yes, Knife Handle (Kozuka) is in the public domain and available for free download under CC0 license.

Knife Handle (Kozuka)

Gotō Mitsutaka (Enjō)

mid-18th century

Medium

Copper-gold alloy (shakudō), silver

Dimensions

L. 3 13/16 in. (9.7 cm); W. 9/16 in. (1.4 cm)

Classification

Sword Furniture-Kozuka

Culture

Japanese

Department

Arms and Armor

Museum

Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, NY

Credit

Rogers Fund, 1945

Accession Number

45.24.33

Art Historical Context

This exquisite *Knife Handle (Kozuka)*, by the renowned metalworker Gotō Mitsut (known as Enjō) in mid-18th-century Japan, exemplifies the pinnacle of Edo-period sword fittings. Measuring just under 4 inches long, this compact piece from the samurai's arsenal was part of a larger ensemble of sword mounts, reflecting the era's blend of martial utility and artistic refinement. Gotō Mitsutaka, the prestigious Gotō school of metalworkers, was celebrated for his mastery in creating functional yet opulent accessories for the warrior class. A *kozuka* served as a small utility knife tucked into the ...

Knife Handle (Kozuka)

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