A new exhibition at Chester’s Grosvenor Museum explores the life of the Samurai warriors from medieval and early-modern Japan.
‘Samurai Arms and Armour’ displays exceptional Samurai weapons and armour made by some of the greatest Japanese metal workers from the 16th century to the present day.
The exhibition includes swords, complete suits of armour, helmets, and a wedding kimono. The three suits of armour are displayed in the traditional manner on top of their storage boxes, which gives the impression of a seated Samurai warrior.
Councillor Louise Gittins, Cabinet Member for Culture, Leisure and Wellbeing said ‘This is a rare chance to see such an outstanding collection of Japanese arms and armour.
“The Grosvenor Museum has worked closely with a private collector with links to Cheshire, who wanted to give people the opportunity to enjoy his collection.
‘The museum has also borrowed exhibits from Blackburn Museum and Art Gallery and World Museum Liverpool.”
Younger visitors will be able to design a Japanese gravel garden, try on a kimono, smell what life as a Samurai was like and make their own origami Samurai helmet.
‘The full events programme includes a talk on Japanese art, a martial arts demonstration in replica Samurai armour, a demonstration of traditional Japanese music, make your own Samurai peg doll and more.
The exhibition runs until 21 February 2016. Admission to the museum is free. For further details visit www.westcheshiremuseums.co.uk
