Japanese Lacquered Samurai Jingasa Hat Edo Period

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A bespoken Japanese historical hat known as Jinggasa (militant hat) that was worn by samurai in Edo period (1603-1868) circa … Read more A bespoken Japanese historical hat known as Jinggasa (militant hat) that was worn by samurai in Edo period (1603-1868) circa 18-19th century. There were several subtypes of Jingasa and this is a type called ichimonji gasa or hara gasa (flat type). It was were constructed from layers of paper and cloth with heavy surface lacquer with brass hardware accoutrement and tassels. It was made strong enough to be worn as a helmet and often waterproof. On Jingasa worn by higher ranks of samurai members, there was always a mon (family crest) in gilt lacquer on the surface as an identification.
This Jingasa stands out in its rather unusual decorations. The black exterior features a highly textured surface that resembles tree bark. The underside, which in most cases covered with a simple layer of monochrome lacquer, was lavishly decorated in gold leaf stripes and powder splashes on a bright red background. The overall visual effect is therefore very striking. The exterior surface also showcase a fifteen-leaf Sasa (bamboo) Mon toward the front, three tridents radiating from the metal tehen kanamono (the kiku shape hardware that covers the top center knot), and on the back, a ring (called kasa jirushi no kan) for the decorative agemaki bow. Underneath the hat, there are four rings where the red cord is fastened to be used to tie under the wearer's chin.
The Jingasa appears original with mellow patina and wears along the edges and on the surface that are consistent with its historical use. See less