Arms and Armor of the Samurai | 12th–19th century
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Cliff-Shaped Helmet with Iris Leaves, Azuchi-Momoyama–Edo period, 16th–17th century
Japanese Gallery (Honkan) Rooms 5 & 6
February 6, 2024 (Tue) - April 21, 2024 (Sun)The samurai ruled Japan for nearly 700 years, from the late 12th to the 19th century. They emulated the imperial court, which was the home of high culture, but also borrowed from the practices of common people. Wishing for divine protection in this life and salvation in the next, they worshipped both Shinto and Buddhist deities. The culture of the samurai was complex and ever–changing, but always reflected their authority as the warrior class of Japan.
This gallery focuses on the most prominent symbols of samurai authority: swords, armor, and other military equipment. These had many purposes. Through diverse colors and materials, they showed the tastes of their owners. Differences in shape and construction reflected differences in rank and social standing. Many samurai passed down this equipment as heirlooms, while high–ranking samurai exchanged it as diplomatic gifts. Swords and armor were also donated to Buddhist temples and Shinto shrines in prayer for victory in battle.
| Designation | Name | Creation/ Excavation/ Provenance |
Period | Acquisition/ Ownership/ Accession Number |
CMT | ||
| Highlight | Important Cultural Property | Armor ("Dōmaru") with “Eurasian Jay” Lacing, Red at the Top | Passed down by the Akita Clan | Muromachi period, 15th century | Gift of Mr. Akita Kazusue, F-20153 | ||
| Highlight | Important Cultural Property | Cord-Wrapped Sword Mounting ("Itomaki no Tachi") with Paulownia Crests | Muromachi period, 15th century | F-19991 | On exhibit from February 14, 2024 | ||
| Highlight | Important Cultural Property | Pair of Spiral-Wrapped Sword Mountings ("Hirumaki no Daishō") | Azuchi-Momoyama period, 16th century | F-19872 | On exhibit from February 14, 2024 | ||
| Important Cultural Property | Armor ("Dōmaru") with Black Lacing, White at the Top | Nanbokuchō period, 14th century | Gift of Ms. Fujiwara Kiyoko, F-19972 | ||||
| Highlight | Samurai's Leather Vest ("Kawa Baori") with Bamboo and Sparrows | Passed down by the Hachisuka clan | Edo period, 18th–19th century | I-4440 | On exhibit through March 3, 2024 |