Decorated "Shark" Skin (<i>Kazari-zame</i>)

An item at Metropolitan Museum of Art

This decorated "shark" skin was a highly valued gift in the Edo period, as high quality rayskin, harvested in Indonesia and Thailand, was difficult to obtain owing to Japan's closed door policy. Rayskin was used for sword grips and decorated shark skins of this type were a common gift made within the samurai and daimyo ranks, where the material was especially appreciated.

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