Antique Samurai Helmet Jingasa (KT-30)
Period: estimated Late Edo Period
Prime Material: estimated Wood
We classify this item as a type of the Jingasa (陣笠). It is usually made from metal or leather, and Ashigaru (足軽, infantry) and low-ranked soldiers wore it. They substituted it for Kabutos (兜, Samurai helmet). Since the tactics of placing infantry on the front lines became the mainstream, it was a primary matter of how the infantry gained high mobility. Therefore, they wore simple armor with minimal functionality to protect themselves, unlike the luxurious armor of high-ranked Samurai warriors. Crests or marks were drawn on the front of the Jingasa to make it a sign for judging each affiliation.
In the Edo period, people finally welcomed the times of peace. There was a growing trend towards decorative enjoyment, such as designing weapons and armors or how to wear them. Of course, the Jingasa was also included in this tide. Samurai warriors started using Jingasas as a tool to show the wearer’s identity and family, not as a protective gear for the head. Considering its relatively good condition, we think this Jingasa is also one of these Jingasas. Even the inside is lacquered gorgeously with some golden square shaped patterns, and the front has a beautiful curved shape. Jingasas, which were produced in that period, have artistic and stylish beauty. A theory says that high-ranked Samurai warriors enjoyed wearing these Jingasas when they went out for business, and even some of them changed Jingasas, adopting it to seasons.
We hope you enjoyed the history of the Jingasa and would be attracted to the charm of this work.
Please focus on the front of this Jingasa. You would find a golden crest is designed. This is a family crest called the Hidari Mitsu-Domoe (左三つ巴). Also, this Hidari Mistu-Domoe pattern is placed in an octagonal shape made by cutting the four corners off of a square, called sumikirikaku (隅切り角), so this type of family crest is especially called the Sumikirikaku ni Mistu-Domoe (隅切り角に三つ巴).
There are several theories about the origin of this 巴 (Tomoe) design. According to an idea, it was modeled on the shape of the Magatama (勾玉, comma-shaped bead), or it was based on the swirling of flowing water. It is also said that the Tomoe pattern comes from the Tomo (靹). It is a tool attached to the inside of the left wrist when shooting a bow to prevent the bowstring from hitting the arm or bracelet after shooting an arrow. The Tomoe pattern represents water, so people treated it as a talisman to prevent fire. It was often applied to the roof tiles of shrines. It is because people believed the Tomoe design would exorcize evil spirits. The design of two Magatama-shaped commas is called Futatsu-Tomoe (二つ巴), and the pattern with three commas is called Mitsu-Domoe (三つ巴), as seen here. It is said that the Sumikirikaku ni Mistu-Domoe pattern has been used for family crests of some feudal lords or a high ranking samurai in the direct service of the Tokugawa shogunate of feudal Japan.
【About us】
Samurai Museum is located in Tokyo, Japan, exhibiting antique artifacts related to the Samurai history. Samurai Museum Shop is the place for those who are interested in Japanese culture and craftsmanship. We deal with antique Samurai swords/armor, traditional crafts made in Japan and so on.
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【Shipping Duration】
We ship via EMS (Japanese Postal Service). It normally takes at least 5-14 days to receive any packages after you place an order. It might take longer depending on the season or custom clearance. We will inform your order’s tracking number via email.
*Please keep in mind there is possible delay expected in delivery with EMS in some countries due to the pandemic in the world. We offer free shipping only when we can ship by EMS.
【How to make sure the condition】
Please keep in mind that what you are going to purchase is an antique item. We uploaded high resolution photos for you to check its condition thoroughly. If you like to see more photos with different angles, please feel free to contact us. We will be happy to send them to you so that you can make informed decision. It is essential for us to know that you are happy with your choice of a sword. and we are prepared to use the best of our ability to serve you.
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【How To Preserve Antique Samurai Armor/Helmets】
Dryness, humidity, and bad ventilation might deteriorate the condition of antique Samurai armor/helmet. The best temperature to preserve Samurai armor/helmet is around 20℃ in Celsius, and humidity should be about 60%. Direct sunlight should be avoided. We recommend storing armors/helmets in a room with good ventilation. If you like to display them outside the boxes for a prolonged time, we suggest using a glass case in order for dust not to be accumulated easily. In case you don’t use a glass case, please make sure to regularly dust off from the armor/helmets by using a soft brush made of delicate cloth or brush for painting.
If you like to know more about the preservation of this armor, please feel free to contact us.
