笄 Kougai / Ear Pick

What is Kougai in Japanese Katana terminology?

This is a small tool attached to the Koshirae (sword mounting) used for grooming, such as fixing disheveled hair or removing earwax. During the Edo period, like the Kodzuka (small utility knife), it began to be valued for its artistic qualities as a decorative item, and many masterpieces were produced. When made by the same maker as the Kodzuka and Menuki (ornamental rivets), it is particularly referred to as "Mitokoromono".