I mark logo
The William R. and Clarice V. Spurlock Museum at University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
Home >

Collections

 >

New Acquisitions

 >

Samurai Helmet and Mask

Samurai Helmet and Mask
Mask, Helmet, and Neck Guards
Neck guards of various sizes connect together to protect the back of the neck.

A Japanese Iron Samurai Kabuo (helmet) and Mempo (face mask) from the Edo Period, circa 18th century, are the Museum’s newest acquisition, donated by Char and Dan Brady in memory of Arthur H. Brady, an avid Museum supporter and member of the World Heritage Museum Guild.

Designed to cover a person’s face below the eyes, the fierce and grotesquely modeled mask has a crooked nose, grimacing mouth and an attached neck guard. Red lacquer on the interior reflects on the skin to enhance the intimidating demeanor.

Learn More: Samurai Helmet and Mask (2005.05)

Detail on back of helmet
Appliqué adornments on the back rim of the helmet

Most of the artifacts in New Acquisitions articles are chosen to allow website visitors to explore artifacts that are not on display in the Museum's galleries. Try searching the database or exploring the Virtual Tour to find artifacts on display.