Antique Japanese Battle Hat, 1912 - 1926 (Taisho) | SKU: 26M-940

Japanese Jingasa Battle Hat | Antique Wall Decor & Collector Display, 1912-1926 (Taisho), SKU 26M-940

A lacquered wood jingasa -- the iconic flat-domed helmet of the Japanese foot soldier -- offered here as a rare Taisho-era antique.

A jingasa is a traditional Japanese battle hat worn by ashigaru (foot soldiers) and lower-ranked samurai retainers from the Sengoku period onward, remaining in ceremonial and military use well into the modern era. Constructed from wood and finished in multiple layers of urushi lacquer, this example displays a smooth matte-black exterior with a clean domed profile and a flat brim -- the hallmark silhouette of the classic jingasa form. The craftsmanship is consistent with handcrafted Japanese military antiques of the Taisho period, when traditional lacquer techniques were still applied to functional objects even as Japan modernized its armed forces. The interior reveals a deep red-lacquered finish, a common protective treatment on the inner surface, with visible age-related wear and lacquer loss that speaks authentically to the piece's century of history.

Today, the jingasa's bold sculptural form makes it a compelling piece of Japanese antique decor suited to a variety of modern interiors. Displayed crown-up on a shelf or pedestal, it reads as a striking minimalist accent that complements a wabi-sabi aesthetic or Japandi-style living room. Turned bowl-side up, it can serve as a decorative catchall for keys or small objects in an entryway. For collectors of Japanese militaria, samurai artifacts, or vintage Japanese craft, this is a rare and tangible connection to the Taisho era -- and a unique gift for Japanophiles and history enthusiasts alike.

• Origin: Japan
• Era: 1912-1926 (Taisho)
• Material: Wood with urushi (lacquer) -- matte black exterior, red lacquer interior
• Use: Jingasa -- traditional Japanese battle hat worn by foot soldiers and military retainers
• Modern Use: Sculptural wall or shelf display; entryway catchall bowl; collector centerpiece for Japanese militaria or samurai antique enthusiasts
• Features: Smooth domed crown, flat brim, black lacquer exterior in good overall condition; red lacquered interior with age-related lacquer loss and wear consistent with period use
• Dimensions: 15" Diameter x 8"H
• Condition: Good antique condition -- exterior lacquer intact and well-preserved; interior shows authentic wear including lacquer flaking and minor losses consistent with age

A rare and striking piece of Japanese antique militaria -- the jingasa brings centuries of samurai history and bold sculptural presence into any modern home or collection.

We use professional studio lighting to highlight the natural character of the wood. As a result, the tone may appear slightly warmer than under natural daylight.

All vintage and antique items are sold as-is. Each piece may exhibit signs of age, including scratches, wear, or minor imperfections. These are not considered defects but natural evidence of the item’s authenticity and age.