Kozuka (by-knife)

Culture Japanese

Dateprobably 1500s

Mediumsteel, shakudo, and silver

Dimensions21.3 cm (8 3/8 in.), 2 oz (weight)

ClassificationsArms and Armor

Credit LineThe John Woodman Higgins Armory Collection

Terms

Object number2014.62.3

DescriptionOf the usual form. Steel, single edged straight blade, the edges parallel from the handle for about 1/4 length, whence cutting edge is stepped & curves gently to back edge at the point. Deep "yakiba" (temper line) is barely visible on reverse. Long, rectangular handle almost as long as blade itself. This is of copper alloy ("shakudo"), with an inlaid silver plaque on obverse. This has floral sprays in relief on closely stippled ground.Label TextThe kozuka is a small utility knife stored in a samurai's scabbard next to the sword. This one is decorated with flowers, a favorite motif in samurai arms and armor.ProvenancePurchased on 9 January 1936 as part of a group from Boston Antique Shop (Boston, MA), their item G-197.
Collection transfer from Higgins Armory, January 2014.

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