Knife Handle (Kozuka) 1800 - 1850

This "Knife Handle (Kozuka)" is a Japanese decorative art piece made from gold and silver, dating back to the 1800-1850 period. It was created by the esteemed Japanese artist Gotō Mitsuyoshi (Shinjō), who was born in 1780 and passed away in 1843. The handle showcases a striking design with a stylized gold lion against a blue silk background, encased in a delicate gold frame. This small yet intricate object is currently housed at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City and is a fine example of the Edo period craftsmanship in Japan.