Katana - Japan - Edo Period (1600-1868)

The Kozuka comes from my late uncle.
Length: 9.8 cm
Weight: 32 g

For sale is an original Japanese Kozuka, the traditional handle of a Kogatana knife, as used as part of the sword mounting (Koshirae) of a katana or wakizashi.
The piece stylistically dates to the Edo period and shows an elegant combination of dark metal with finely worked relief decoration.
The front is artistically designed and features a dragon in raised relief, moving dynamically across the surface.
The motif is a traditional symbol of agility, protection, and good fortune in Japan.
The glossy surface of the figure stands out clearly from the matte background and gives the Kozuka a strong visual impact.
The back is plain, as is typical for Kozuka, underscoring the piece's function as the grip of a Kogatana.
The fine metalwork, the three-dimensional rendering, and the clean lines make this Kozuka an attractive collectible.

Details
Original Japanese Kozuka (handle of a Kogatana)
Stylistically Edo period
Dark metal with a shiny relief motif
Depiction of a lizard/gecko in raised relief
Beautiful patina and age-related wear