Last Defense: The Genius of Japanese Meiji Metalwork

In celebration of the 150th anniversary of the Meiji Restoration (1868-1912), the political revolution when power was restored to the emperor from the samurai class, this exhibition will focus on the genius and versatility of metalworkers during this transitional moment. With the decline of the samurai class and its privileges, armor-makers such as the renowned four centuries-old Myochin family of metalworkers applied their exemplary skills and artistry to develop new types of metal products, from toys to decorative art.

Credit: Exhibition overview from museum website.