Knife Handle (Kozuka) 19th century

This is a 'Kozuka,' or knife handle, crafted by Ichijosai Hironaga around the early 19th century. Its muted metallic ground is enlivened by dynamic figuration. Look closely and you'll notice a figure holding a trident, set amidst swirling clouds. The handle's composition creates a compelling tension between surface and depth. The motifs are not merely decorative but are deliberately placed to destabilize our perception, creating a rich interplay of textures and forms. The artist also uses high relief to emphasize the figure and clouds. The handle’s compact size requires us to engage with the piece in close proximity, compelling us to appreciate the artisan's technique. Such interplay between figuration and abstraction prompts us to consider how the piece challenges fixed meanings. Ultimately, the Kozuka functions as a site of ongoing aesthetic engagement.