Kabuto
As Kabuto (Japanese兜) is called the helmets of the state of Japanese warriors, the samurai to their armor ( Yoroi ) be worn. There are various types of Kabuto, which are named, depending on the materials used, or according to their construction. Generally seen as Kabuto the large, ornate helmets, which can be seen in films and photographs in the media and in literature.
Description
In the area of the front of the helmet has a specially reinforced midsection to protect the human region ( frontal and parietal region, one of the traditional targets of the classic Japanese weapons arts), plates or chain mail back and sides protect the head and neck and ornaments and helmet jewelry ( Maedate ) indicate the clan membership of the carrier. For the part of the face was, depending on the mask of helmet often Mempo to be worn, which protect the face in part, but also the enemy to intimidate.
The Kabuto was often made with a cap made of leather, which was studded with various layers of metal. Other versions were made of chain or plate armor, sometimes a mixture of both, which was attached for better padding on a hood of cloth. On the battlefield, they served not only protect the wearer but also had a representative character, that showed power and status of the wearer from. For this reason, many different types elaborately decorated, sumptuous copies of the Kabuto was manufactured especially during the Heian and Kamakura period.
The heavy weight of a Kabuto led to the emergence of some close combat techniques in the Japanese martial arts. It was by means of a targeted strike under the jaw of the opponent and taking advantage of the high weight, which had to bear the head, broke his neck.
Cultural impact
The Kabuto was a particularly striking and important piece of equipment a bushi (Japanese for warrior ) also on an excessive symbolic level. This explains the large number of phrases and proverbs that have been influenced by Kabuto. Here are some examples:
- Katte kabuto no o o shimeyo. (勝って兜の緒を締めよ. ): Literally about " pulling the strap of your Kabuto fixed after a win. " So with the meaning that you can not after a success is to let up in his efforts. The German equivalent is perhaps " not rest on its laurels ."
- Kabuto o nugu (兜を脱ぐ): literally as: " the Kabuto lose weight" with the meaning of "give up".
Nowadays smaller Kabuto and Yoroi be sold ( the name for the full armor) as collectibles and ornaments. On 5 May, the Japanese "Festival of the boys " they are then put on display to give the hope that every boy should grow up in a family in a strong "warrior".