Bronze Kogai with Dragon Motif

Bronze Kogai with Dragon Motif – Traditional Sword Accessory

The Samurai's Multi-Tool

The purpose of the Kogai was historically surprisingly versatile. In times of peace, it served primarily as a personal grooming item – used to arrange complex samurai hairstyles or as an ear-cleaning tool. In times of war, however, the Kogai acquired a much darker function. Samurai used it to tag fallen adversaries. After a battle, when it was necessary to prove victory and claim a reward from the lord (Daimyo), the Kogai inserted into the hair knot of a severed head served as the victor's signature.

Construction and Design

This model is a solid Kogai (made from a single piece). Therefore, it is not the variant that could be split to serve as chopsticks (wari-kogai). The blade is blunt, flat, and tapers to a point, which facilitates smooth insertion into the sword scabbard.

Specifications