A person in Japan, called a samurai, once wore this helmet as part of a magnificent suit of armor. Samurai were landowners and specially trained warriors. The samurai class was the most powerful group in Japan from the 12th to the 18th century because they controlled land, weapons, and private armies. This particular set of armor was made during the end of the great samurai culture in the Edo period (1603–1868). It is made mostly of metal that is covered in red lacquer. Its bright color, spectacular craftsmanship, and elaborate helmet indicate the armor probably belonged to a high-ranking samurai.
