Maedate – Brass Crest

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 9^th 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.

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