| Object Number | 19877 |
| Current Location | Collections Storage |
| Culture | Japanese |
| Provenience | Japan |
| Period | Edo Period (uncertain) | Meiji Period (uncertain) |
| Date Made | Edo Period - 1897 |
| Section | Asian |
| Materials | Metal |
| Iconography | Dragon |
| Inscription Language | Japanese Language |
| Description | Helmet. "Southern barbarian helmet" or nanban kabuto, deriving its name from apparent European influence in the helmet's shape and design. Circular samurai helmet made from a single sheet of metal. The helmet bowl bulges at the middle and narrows toward the brim. The brim is flat and slightly pointed toward the front of the helmet. The top of the helmet features a two-stage fixture (tehen-no-kanamono), each stage in the shape of a chrysanthemum flower. Atop the tehen-no-kanamon is a spike which has been broken.The body of the helmet bowl is decorated with an elaborate engraved dragon. The dragon encircles the entire helmet and weaves between wispy clouds. The underbelly, whiskers, eyes, ears, and wings of the dragon are all gilded. Signed by, 明珍吉久, Myochin Yoshihisa (Edo period), on the underside of the brim. |
| Length | 24 cm |
| Width | 22 cm |
| Credit Line | Purchased from G. T. Marsh and Co; subscription of Mrs. Phebe A. Hearst, 1897 |
| Other Number | CG2016-1-70 - Found in Collection Number | 66 - Other Number |
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