Knife Handle (Kozuka)
Unknown Artist
ca. 1615–1868
Medium
Silver
Dimensions
L. 3 13/16 in. (9.7 cm); W. 9/16 in. (1.4 cm); thickness 1/4 in. (0.6 cm); Wt. 1 oz. (28.3 g)
Classification
Sword Furniture-Kozuka
Culture
Japanese
Department
Arms and Armor
Museum
Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, NY
Credit
H. O. Havemeyer Collection, Bequest of Mrs. H. O. Havemeyer, 1929
Accession Number
29.100.1262
Tags
Art Historical Context
This exquisite silver knife handle, known as a *kozuka*, hails from Japan during the Edo period (. 1615–1868), a time of relative peace when samurai culture flourished through refined craftsmanship. The *kozuka* served as the handle for a small utility knife (*kozukatana*) that tucked neatly into the scabbard of a samurai sword, blending practicality with artistry. Crafted in shimmering silver, it measures just under 4 inches long, making it a delicate yet essential accessory in the warrior's arsenal. Adorned with turtle motifs—symbols of longevity and good fortune in Japanese lore—the handle...