Antique Japanese Meiji Solid Silver Kozuka Hilt – Signed Ōmori Birds & Florals c1900

Immerse yourself in the breathtaking craftsmanship of late 19th-century Japan. This exceptional solid silver kozuka-style hilt (traditionally the handle for a secondary utility knife nested inside a samurai’s katana scabbard) dates to the height of the Meiji Era (c. 1880–1900). Following the 1876 Haitōrei edict which banned the carrying of swords in public, Japan’s legendary metalsmiths transitioned their skills from deadly weaponry to high-end decorative exports for elite Western connoisseurs.

This slightly arched, closed-back hilt is a stellar example of that historic artistic pivot. The obverse showcases a stunningly detailed, deeply chased scene of a songbird nestled among blossoming flora, rendered with incredible depth and texture against a finely punched background.

Prestigious Signed Provenance
The reverse features an authentic, hand-incised two-part signature: 大森 (Ōmori) and 須磨 (Suma). The Ōmori mark directly evokes the legendary 18th and 19th-century lineage of Edo fittings masters, while the Suma mark references the scenic coastal district of Kobe—a vital hub for high-grade export metalwork during the treaty-port era.

Precision verified via XRF (X-ray fluorescence) technology as solid silver, this rare crossover piece beautifully bridges the worlds of antique samurai sword furniture and luxury decorative arts. It presents an incredible acquisition opportunity for any serious collection of Asian antiquities.

Specifications
Origin: Japan (Meiji Era, c. 1880–1900)

Material: Solid Silver (XRF Tested & Confirmed)

Form: Kozuka Hilt / Decorative Handle (Closed-back form)

Artistry: High-Relief Chasing & Stippling (Bird and Floral motifs)

Kanji Signatures: 大森 (Ōmori) & 須磨 (Suma)

Length: Approx. 9.0 cm

Shipping: Free UK Shipping via Royal Mail Tracked 48 (Fully insured, premium signature tracking)

Condition Report
This piece is in exceptional antique condition, showing a beautifully preserved level of crispness to the hand-carved relief work. The silver features a gorgeous, gentle natural age patina in the deep recesses, which highlights the artistry beautifully. The reverse displays authentic light hammering marks from production and crisp, unaltered stamped/incised kanji. Free of any splits, cracks, structural warping, or modern restorations. Please examine the macro photography for a detailed look at the maker’s marks.