Miniature Samurai Kabuto Helmet with Gold Kuwagata

A palm-sized replica of a samurai kabuto helmet in a dark gunmetal finish. The ribbed bowl is studded with rows of rivets, and a fierce mempo face mask with a moustache and snarling mouth sits underneath. Layered neck guards curve around the back, and the flared side wings are embossed with floral patterns. Rising from the brow are two gleaming gold horns with an engraved band. It's a striking little sculpture for a desk, a bookshelf or a collector's display.

Those golden horns are called kuwagata. The name means "hoe-shaped", though they're thought to have started as stylised deer antlers. Every year on Children's Day, 5 May, Japanese families display miniature kabuto like this one as part of the Tango no Sekku tradition. A helmet that was never meant to be worn becomes a wish that the children of the house grow up strong, healthy and protected.