This elegant double dragon kozuka originates from the Kaga-Goto school, a branch of the Goto family that developed under the Maeda clan in Kaga province. The front depicts two dragons amidst swirling clouds, executed in fine gold inlay against a deep shakudo ground. The clouds rise naturally from the surface, forming soft, sculptural reliefs that enhance the sense of movement and depth. The background is finished in a delicate nanako texture, lending a refined surface contrast to the luminous dragons. The piece is set in gold, emphasizing its luxurious character and value.
The reverse side bears yasurime (file marks) that are fine and characteristic of the Kaga-Goto tradition, demonstrating both technical precision and artistic restraint. The kozuka is preserved in outstanding condition, showing almost no dents or surface wear—a remarkable survival that preserves the integrity of its delicate inlays. Stylistically, the dragons maintain some of the classical Goto aesthetics but differ subtly in execution. The chisel marks (tagane) in the ears reveal that this is not a work of the mainline Goto, though the triangular chisel strokes on the claws and horns reflect the traditional Goto-Musuno tagane typical of the family’s technique, which helps us to date this piece to the time between the 7th and 9th mainline masters in the early Edo period. The dragons show greater dynamism and energy than those of the mainline Goto generations, hinting at the influence of local artistic trends within Kaga.
The composition itself is dramatic and harmonious: the right dragon extends from the edge of the kozuka toward the center, grasping the sacred jewel (tama) in its claw, while its tail ends in the form of a ken, a sword-like motif symbolizing strength and spiritual power. The left dragon emerges from behind, twisting gracefully and turning its head toward its companion, creating a lively dialogue of forms. The piece reflects the mature Kaga-Goto taste for opulent yet controlled ornamentation—bold in design but impeccable in finish.
The Kaga-Goto school was founded by Goto Ichiemon, a pupil of Goto Kenjo (7th mainline generation), who worked for the Maeda lords in Kanazawa together with his cousin Kakujo. Ichiemon’s descendants, beginning with Kiyonaga (Shichibei) and Kiyoshige, continued this lineage through the 17th and 18th centuries, maintaining the Goto family’s high standards while blending them with Kaga’s preference for lavish metalwork and refined textures. Works of this school are known for their flawless nanako, delicate yasurime, and sophisticated color contrasts between gold and shakudo—qualities all beautifully embodied in this outstanding kozuka.
Comes with a custom made Kiri wood box.
Size:
97 mm x 15 mm x 5 mm
Find more items from the Goto school here: https://tsuba.info/product-category/kinko/goto/
