Knife Handle (Kozuka) 19th century

This 19th-century "Kozuka," a knife handle, is a testament to the artistry of Gotō Ichijō, a renowned Japanese metalworker. Crafted from iron and adorned with intricate gold and silver details, the "Kozuka" depicts a crane in flight against a backdrop of stylized waves and foliage. The piece exemplifies the meticulous craftsmanship and refined aesthetic that characterized Japanese metalwork during this period, often incorporating symbolic imagery like the crane, revered for its longevity and grace. This "Kozuka," now housed in the Metropolitan Museum of Art, offers a glimpse into the rich artistic traditions of Japan.