Knights in Central Park | Explore & Learn | The Metropolitan Museum of Art

Samurai helmets were often very elaborate. Attached to the brow were crests in the shape of horns, dragons, and other fantastic creatures. The purpose of these emblems was to identify the warrior, symbolize his bravery, and scare his enemies.

Helmet; Muromachi period (1392–1573); Japanese; lacquered iron, gilt copper, stenciled leather, silk; H. 16 1/2 in. (30.6 cm); The Metropolitan Museum of Art, Rogers Fund, 1913 (13.112.10)

Samurai wore their hair in a short ponytail on top of their heads. Their helmets often had an opening at the top for ventilation and to allow the ponytail to pass through. Click the magnifying glass to get a closer look.



	In celebration of Children's Day on May 5, families in Japan bring out and display miniature samurai helmet and weapon sets to inspire courage and fortitude in their sons. Seiji, who lives in New York, demonstrates the use of the imitation sword that's part of the set given to him by his grandfather in Japan.

Photograph Credits