Helmet (Kawari-kabuto) Surmounted by a Dragonfly

Restorer/Conservator Restored by Hiromichi Miura Japanese

18th century; restorations, 2015

Not on view

A favorite emblem of the samurai, the dragonfly was known as kachi-mushi ("victorious insect") and was respected for its hunting technique: flying directly forward toward its prey, never wavering from its path. Dragonflies most often appear as the crest on the front of the helmet (maedate). On this unusual example, a large and detailed rendition of the creature instead surmounts the helmet’s bowl, which is adorned with clouds, suggesting flight.

Artwork Details

Overview

Provenance

Exhibition History

References

Title: Helmet (Kawari-kabuto) Surmounted by a Dragonfly
Restorer/Conservator: Restored by Hiromichi Miura (Japanese, b. 1938)
Date: 18th century; restorations, 2015
Culture: Japanese
Medium: Iron, copper, gold, silver, wood, lacquer, silk, linen, hemp
Dimensions: H. 13 in. (33 cm); W. 25 3/4 in. (65.4 cm); D. 15 1/2 in. (39.4 cm); Wt. 5 lb. 6.8 oz. (2460.7 g)
Classification: Helmets
Credit Line: Gift of Etsuko O. Morris and John H. Morris Jr., 2018
Object Number: 2018.833.9a–d
Curatorial Department: Arms and Armor

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By Hiromichi Miura

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Armor (<i>Gusoku</i>), Hiromichi Miura Japanese, Iron, leather, lacquer, gold, copper, silver, textile, silk, Japanese — Armor (*Gusoku*)
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Hiromichi Miura
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