Japan

Arms and armour in Japan are deeply intertwined with the country's martial history and traditions. They are intrinsically linked to the bushi, Japan's warrior class (popularly known as the samurai in the West), who dominated the country's social, political, and military landscape for centuries, beginning with the Kamakura shogunate (created in 1192). These warriors followed a code of idealised behaviour known as bushido (way of the warrior), which focussed on seven virtues: honesty, courage, respect, benevolence, integrity, honour, and loyalty. While they initially rose to power due to their military prowess, they maintained their elevated positions through political, financial, and cultural acumen, and were expected to hold administrative positions within their military government. In addition, and in contrast to the brutality of their profession, they also became highly cultivated individuals, practicing, supporting, and patronising the arts. 

In feudal Japan, ownership of high-quality arms and armour was a mark of social status and esteem. Wealthy samurai lords, known as daimyo, commissioned master artisans to produce exquisite suits of armour and weapons. During the peaceful Edo period (1615–1868) as well as the Meji period (1868–1912), these objects transformed from instruments of war to coveted symbols of wealth, power, and lineage. For example, ceremonial arms and armour were passed down through generations, treated as reverential objects towards one's family history and heritage. They also were crucial to a samurai's public image; they would display these objects in their homes as well as during important events, such as tea ceremonies, as markers of status and prestige. As a product of the ritual nature of Japan’s sword culture, many swords were dedicated by bushi houses to shrines and temples as objects of worship.

Around the administrative bases of powerful daimyo, major sword-making centres emerged, leading to the development of the five great sword-making traditions: Yamashiro, Yamato, Bizen, Soshu, and Mino. Sword aesthetics were not static but rather evolved over time, reflecting changing tastes and advances in manufacturing techniques, with the major schools influencing one another. The art of sword appreciation became a highly specialised field, especially during the Edo period. The distinct features and craftsmanship of various schools and masters were meticulously recorded and studied, giving rise to the discipline of sword appraisal known as kantei. This body of knowledge continues to inform the appreciation of nihonto (Japanese swords) today. 

Japanese ceremonial arms and armour are celebrated for their exquisite craftsmanship and artistic beauty. To adorn them, artisans employed traditional techniques such as lacquering, metalworking, and intricate detailing. Decorations were a reflection of both the cultural identity and aesthetic sensibilities of their patrons, and included family crests; clan symbols; auspicious motifs, including dragons, phoenixes, and cherry blossoms; as well as themes of nature, mythology, and religious symbolism. During the Meji period, the abolishment of the samurai class and openness to the West led to the production of more flamboyant ceremonial arms to suit the tastes of the European market. Nonetheless, the production and embellishment of these works were a true pursuit of excellence; artisans collaborated to meticulously execute the parts in which they specialised.

Taichi and saya (scabbard) 
Japan; Meji period (1868–1912), ca. 1900
Steel, copper alloy, polychrome enamel, wood,  silk tassels
Mengdiexuan Collection