The Menuki - Parts of a Japanese KatanaThe menuki are the decorative metal ornaments the are woven under the tsuka-ito (handle wrapping). These ornaments were originally made to hide the mekugi pins that secure the tsuka to the tang of the blade. They are normally positioned forward on one side and back on the other. These are your hand positions with the menuki fitting into your palms. On unique tsuka wrappings such as katate-maki or battle wrap the menuki may be woven into the centre as a decorative ornament. Some are very elaborate pieces made by talented jewellers and artisans that will compliment or become the centre piece of the katana's overall theme. Menuki PhotosThese are some photo's of the cariety of Menuki found on the Japanese katana that we offer.Keeping all the specifications of their predecessors, this new tanto will feature a dragon motif. See more of the Modern Tanto - BohiThe silver menuki on the tsuka are dragons which are embedded in the handle. See more of the Modern Tanto - BohiThis new wakizashi will feature a dragon motif See more of the Modern Wakizashi - BohiThe silver menuki on the tsuka are dragons which are embedded in the handle. See more of the Modern Wakizashi - BohiThe silver menuki on the tsuka are dragons which are embedded in the handle. See more of the Modern Katana - BohiThe silver habaki, menuki and seppa contrast against the black tsuka-ito and the white faux same (ray skin). See more of the Raimie XL KatanaBrass toned dragon menuki and blue ito. See more of the Water Dragon KatanaRyujin embodies both the danger and the abundance of the sea, a force deeply significant to an island nation like ancient Japan. See more of the Ryujin KatanaThe menuki are a cloud and moon motif with a crecent moon and full moon on the other. See more of the Wolf WakizashiBrass menuki on the Musashi Ko-Katana. See more of the Musashi Ko-Katana tsuka is wrapped in suede tsuka ito over white same See more of the Wolf KatanaThe blackened moon shaped stainless steel tsuba silhouettes falling gingko leaves, as the moon coaxes songs from the grasshopper and bell cricket menuki (handle ornaments), both symbols of good fortune in Japanese culture. See more of the Ginkgo Leaf Katana