Description
Maedate is a crest or decorative fitting mounted on the front of a kabuto (samurai helmet). Over the centuries the crest would become more ornate in design. Samurai crests were crafted from different materials, with brass and wood being the most common. The crest could represent a specific family or clan (mon), unit, rank, personality trait or mythical symbols to invoke divine power, bravery, cunning, etc. The most notable designs were often of deities, animals, dragons or even plants. These ornate crests came in different shapes, sizes and designs. Replacing a maedate is a fast and economical way of changing the personality or look of your existing gusoku or kabuto. They also make for great wall displays, especially when hung alongside your display kabuto.
History: The maedate was added to the evolving tanko style armor as early as the 9th century Heian Period. By the 18th Century Edo Period, the Samurai Maedate became more flamboyantly decorative. As a result, it became impractical for battle situations.
Ordering: Browse through the many images of different maedate, using the reference number in the top left hand corner of the image. Select the corresponding reference number from the drop down menu.
Please Note:
A) Any standard clan mon (1 – 60) selected will be made in a round disc (~ 7 1/2 cm in diameter) unless otherwise requested in your order comments during check out.
B) The “Beetle Horn” crest option is intended for replacing an existing set and not for adding to your current kabuto. Adding the “Beetle Horn” option is considered an “aftermarket” DIY part and might not fit your current kabuto. This center crest mounts over your current L bracket. You might need to make modifications to your current L bracket and/or kabuto to make a secure fit. Length options are full length of the “horn” and when mounted, about 2 cm will be inside the holding center bracket.
The Iron Mountain has three types of Samurai Maedate for sale:
- Simple Brass – Standard brass crests, usually with more simple designs.
- Advanced Brass Crests – More intricately designed and bigger brass crests.
- Wooden Crests – Hand shaped and painted wooden crests.
| Our skilled katchû-shi (armorers) at the Iron Mountain Armory will need at least 1 to 2 weeks, depending on options selected, and other scheduled orders, for the custom handcrafting of this item. |
| For more information, please review our Order Options Explained, Glossary Terms or FAQ Pages. You can also Contact Us directly. We are always happy to be of service. |
Great Value!
I have been shopping around for a while and these crests (I ordered 2) are a very good value for the price paid.
perfect for my helmet, new order in preparation
Honestly, I was underwhelmed. For the price, it did not meet my expectations. Made of thin brass. The shape was cut nicely but it was smaller than I had expected.
Thank you for the reply. Perhaps I was in a hurry and did not pay close attention to the written details. I was just excited they were available. However, I did create my own custom design using the one I purchased as a base and added to it. I am very please with the final results. I would be glad to supply a picture if you like.
Thank you for your honest review. Our crests are made to be much like the originals, which were not large, thick clumps of brass. They are made with a modest amount of brass which was needed to keep balance and symmetry. Linked below is an example of an early Edo Era maedate auctioned for €340. You can see how thin they actually where.
Regarding the size of the crest, please note on the bottom right of each image, is the size in cm. Other sizing details are noted in the product description. If you are ever uncertain about what to expect or our product description or picture is not clear, please do contact us before ordering as we do not want you to be surprised and/or underwhelmed with what you receive.
https://www.catawiki.com/en/l/45068157-samurai-helmet-maedate-brass-japan-late-edo-period