Antique Samurai Helmet Jingasa
Period: estimated Mid-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, 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.
The design on this Jingasa features the “Maru ni Ni no Ji” (丸に二の字) family crest, which consists of the character “二” (meaning “two”) enclosed within a circle. This crest is characterized by its simple yet powerful composition, making it highly visible and well-suited for identification on the battlefield.
Kamon (家紋, family crests) were emblems used by samurai and aristocrats to signify their lineage, origin, and affiliation. From the late Heian period to the Sengoku period, family crests were widely displayed on banners, armor, weapons, furnishings, and clothing. In battle, they played a crucial role in distinguishing allies from enemies, and placing them on Jingasa helped strengthen unity among soldiers and clearly indicate their allegiance to a particular lord.
After the Edo period, as battles became less frequent, family crests transitioned from military insignias to decorative elements used in formal attire and architecture. However, the crest on this Jingasa remains a symbol of samurai pride, heritage, and the enduring spirit of their lineage.
*Please note that there are some areas that have cracks on this Jingasa.
【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.
【Payment Method】
We accept payment through Stripe (Credit card), PayPal, Apple Pay or ChromePay, all of which are secure payment methods. Also, you don’t need to make an account on Stripe for the checkout. If you prefer other payment method, please contact us. After confirming your payment, we will apply for an export permit. You may either pay in JPY, USD, AUD, CAD, EUR, CHF or GBP. The price is set in Japanese Yen. Prices in other currencies are automatically calculated based on the latest exchange rate.
【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.
【How To Contact Us】
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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.
