Samurai Exhibition at The British Museum

The British Museum presents a major exhibition tracing the history of samurai over the past 1,000 years, exploring how their image and myth was created from medieval Japan to the present day. This comprehensive exhibition features around 280 objects and digital media from the museum's collection and 29 national and international lenders, revealing the many identities of Japan's warrior class across the centuries. Highlights include: • A suit of samurai armour newly acquired by the Museum, with prestigious helmet and golden standard shaped like iris leaves • The suit of armour presented by Tokugawa Hidetada to King James VI and I • A vermilion red woman's firefighting jacket from Edo Castle • A rare portrait of 13-year-old samurai Itō Mancio by Domenico Tintoretto • Arms, armor, paintings, woodblock prints, ceramics, and examples of contemporary art Known in Japan as musha or bushi, the samurai gained political dominance from the 1100s and evolved from battlefield warriors to government officials, scholars, and patrons of the arts during Japan's peaceful era from 1615. The exhibition offers insights into how national identities are shaped through culture, storytelling and global exchange. Tickets: Adults from £23, Members and under-16s free. Early bird tickets available from £17. Location: The Sainsbury Exhibitions Gallery (Room 30), British Museum Booking: Online at britishmuseum.org or call +44(0)20 7323 8181