Helmet, 5th century; Kofun period
Japanese
Iron, covered with copper-gilt
Technical Glossary
Japanese
Iron, covered with copper-gilt
H. 8 1/2 in. (21.6 cm)
Fletcher Fund, 1928 (28.60.2)
This rare, early Japanese helmet was excavated in Ise Province, Mie Prefecture. The type of construction—horizontal rings to which rectangular scales are riveted—was probably imported from China or Korea. Most helmets of this type were made of iron, but some, of gilt copper, were probably for ceremonial display. This example is unusual in combining both materials.
