Japan - Sword scabbard fitting - 1650-1700

Antique Samurai Kozuka (Sword Fitting) - Shakudo Nanako-ji with Three Crabs - Japan

Welcome to "LastPiece-TimeTravel-Japan". We present a highly detailed antique Kozuka (a small utility knife handle traditionally carried in the scabbard of a Samurai sword).

[Craftsmanship & Materials]
This piece features a striking high-relief (Takabori) motif of three crabs (Sanbiki-kani). The base is crafted from Shakudo, a traditional Japanese alloy of copper and gold known for its deep, purplish-black patina.
The background is meticulously finished in Nanako-ji (fish-roe pattern). This highly demanding technique involves striking tiny, uniform dots one by one with a specialized chisel, demonstrating the incredible patience and skill of the old metalworker. Based on the craftsmanship, it is considered to be a work from around the Momoyama period to the early Edo period.

[Symbolism of the Crab]
In traditional Japanese Samurai culture, the crab is a powerful motif. With its tough shell resembling armor and its unyielding nature, it is a symbol of tenacity, courage, and the warrior's spirit of never retreating.

[Condition]
Overall in good antique condition with a beautiful authentic patina. As expected from a piece of this age, there are traces of wear and some peeling/fading of the gold gilding on the crabs. These signs of aging add a profound historical character to the piece. Please refer to the detailed macro photos carefully to assess the condition and appreciate the fine details.

Dimensions: 9.51 cm x 1.40 cm

Shipping:
Carefully packaged and shipped with a tracking number. Let this piece of Japanese history travel safely to your collection.