Edo Period Samurai Kabuto (Helmet) with Maedate and Fukigaeshi. A finely crafted Japanese kabuto, the hachi c...
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Description
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.
Auction Info
2025 December 8 Arms & Armor, Civil War & Militaria Signature® Auction #6325 (go to Auction Home page)
Bidding Begins Approx.
November
13th
Thursday
Auction Dates
December
8th
Monday
Proxy Bidding Begins Approx.
27 Days
Bids + Registered Phone Bidders: N/A
Lot Tracking Activity: N/A
Page Views: 26
Auction Type
Signature®: Heritage Live®:After Internet bidding closes, live bidding will take place through www.HA.com/Live. Your secret maximum bid placed prior to the live event will compete against the live bids. To maximize your chances of winning, enter realistic secret maximum bids on our site. Many of our proxy bidders are successful at winning lots in these auctions, and usually below their secret maximum. You can also place last minute bids directly with us by e-mailing Bid@HA.com or calling 1-866-835-3243. (Important note: Due to software and Internet latency, live bids may not register in time, so enter realistic proxy bids.)
Signature® Floor Sessions
Proxy bidding ends ten minutes prior to the session start time. Live Proxy bidding on Heritage Live now starts within 2 hours of when the auction opens for proxy bidding and continues through the live session. During the live auction event, bidding in person is encouraged, and Heritage Live includes streaming audio and often video during the event.
Signature®: Heritage Live®:After Internet bidding closes, live bidding will take place through www.HA.com/Live. Your secret maximum bid placed prior to the live event will compete against the live bids. To maximize your chances of winning, enter realistic secret maximum bids on our site. Many of our proxy bidders are successful at winning lots in these auctions, and usually below their secret maximum. You can also place last minute bids directly with us by e-mailing Bid@HA.com or calling 1-866-835-3243. (Important note: Due to software and Internet latency, live bids may not register in time, so enter realistic proxy bids.)
Signature® Floor Sessions
Proxy bidding ends ten minutes prior to the session start time. Live Proxy bidding on Heritage Live now starts within 2 hours of when the auction opens for proxy bidding and continues through the live session. During the live auction event, bidding in person is encouraged, and Heritage Live includes streaming audio and often video during the event.
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