Helmet Crest (Maidate)

An item at Metropolitan Museum of Art

This crest made in the form of a gohei, the ancient ceremonial wand that is a central element in Shintō ritual, is purely Shintō in its inspiration. The traditional gohei is a staff adorned with pleated paper or cloth streamers, which are usually white but may also be black, silver, gold, or other colors. The gohei is used to perform ritual purifications of individuals as well as of votive offerings and is imbued with protective powers. As a prelude to worship the gohei draws the attention of the god to the shrine and during the ritual represents the presence and power of the divinity itself.

Arms and Armor

An exhibit at Metropolitan Museum of Art

The principal goals of the Arms and Armor Department are to collect, preserve, research, publish, and exhibit distinguished examples representing the art of the armorer, swordsmith, and gunmaker. Arms and armor have been a vital part of virtually all cultures for thousands of years, pivotal not only in conquest and defense, but also in court pageantry and ceremonial events. Throughout time the best armor and weapons have represented the highest artistic and technical capabilities of the society and period in which they were made, forming a unique aspect of both art history and material culture.

Metropolitan Museum of Art