Auction Name: 2025 December 8 Arms & Armor, Civil War & Militaria Signature® Auction

Lot Number: 40008

Shortcut to Lot: HA.com/6325*40008

Edo Period Samurai Kabuto (Helmet) with Maedate and Fukigaeshi.

A finely crafted Japanese kabuto, the hachi constructed with prominent fluted vertical plates. The fukigaeshi wings are wrapped in leather and decorated with gilt floral crests, adding both symbolic and aesthetic character. The semi-pointed peak frames the face, while the shikoro is composed of four tiers of Iyozane scales, originally lacquered but now showing considerable wear, and laced in blue. At the front, the kabuto retains its circular maedate mount as intended. A carved dragon (tatsu) maedate accompanies the helmet, though it is detached and does not seat properly, suggesting it may be an associated rather than original element.

This kabuto dates to the Edo period (1603-1868), an era when armor evolved from battlefield protection into a highly expressive art form, signifying the rank, identity, and cultural values of the samurai. Helmets of this type not only safeguarded the warrior but also conveyed prestige and personal symbolism, with crests and decoration reflecting family ties, spiritual beliefs, and social standing. In Japanese lore and proverbs, the kabuto came to embody courage and duty, underscoring its importance in both martial and cultural tradition.

Condition: Moderate overall wear with tears to the lacing and significant detachments to the right side of the shikoro. Lacquer shows moderate to heavy cracking/loss to the interior, with surface wear and losses to the exterior finish consistent with age. The accompanying dragon maedate, heavily lacquered, displays stress cracks with a few claws missing.

Include Thumbnail(s)