Masterpiece Shakudo Kozuka - Twin Shishi Lions & Kenmaki-Ryu (Dragon) - Edo Period, Japan [Goto School Style] 【Description】 Welcome to LastPiece-TimeTravel-Japan. We circulate precious memories, passing them on to become someone else's ultimate treasure—your "Last Piece." This is an exceptionally high-quality "Kozuka" (the handle for a small utility knife carried in the scabbard of a samurai sword), crafted during the Edo period. It is made of "Shakudo" (a highly prized Japanese alloy of copper and a small amount of gold that develops a beautiful dark purplish-black patina). The background features a flawless "Nanako" (fish-roe pattern) ground, which requires immense skill to create each tiny, perfectly aligned raised dot by hand. Decorated with "Takabori" (high-relief carving) and brilliant "Kiniroe" (gold gilding), the artwork depicts a rare and powerful composition: two mythological "Shishi" (guardian lions) and a dragon. The dragon appears to be wrapping around a staff or sword, a famous Buddhist motif known as "Kenmaki-ryu" (or Kurikara), symbolizing the esoteric power to cut through ignorance. Judging from the exquisite workmanship, the meticulous Nanako ground, and the elegant sculptural style, this masterpiece is highly attributable to the prestigious "Goto School"—the official, highest-ranking metalworkers to the Tokugawa shogunate. ■ Product Details Object: Kozuka (Sword scabbard fitting) Material: Shakudo (Japanese copper alloy), Gold gilding Dimensions: Approx. L 9.50 cm x W 1.47 cm ■ Condition & Important Notice [Please read carefully] Condition Category: Good antique condition. As a genuine antique samurai fitting that was historically used, it shows minor natural signs of age. There may be slight surface wear and minor rubbing to the gold gilding accents. We believe this deep, aged texture perfectly embodies the Japanese aesthetic of "Wabi-Sabi" and stands as proof of its authentic samurai history. Please carefully review all photos to fully appreciate its magnificent condition and intricate details before bidding.