SAMURAI: Sunrise, Sunset

The History Museum of Mobile is excited to announce the next major exhibition, SAMURAI: Sunrise, Sunset, on view from September 27, 2024 through January 12, 2025. SAMURAI: Sunrise, Sunset draws from the rich and varied Japanese collection of the Stibbert Museum located in Florence, Italy. It features some 100 objects related to the legendary samurai warriors – full suits of samurai armor, helmets, swords, sword-guards, and saddles – as well as objects intended for more personal use such as lacquered boxes, incense trays, and delicate vases. These objects characterize the period from 1185 – 1868 in which Japan was ruled by the samurai military class that embodied the ideals of the code of Bushido ("the way of the warrior").

Highlights of the exhibition include three exquisite helmets by Ryoei, one of the most famous and talented helmet-makers. Only about 20 works attributed to Ryoei have survived; six of those are at the Museo Stibbert, and three are on display in the exhibition. Other outstanding objects include a quiver entirely covered in flakes of mother-of-pearl and iconic swords with grips made of stingray skin. 

A series of programs will enrich the visitor experience and enhance the educational value of the exhibition. The planned programming is designed to support meaningful connections to exhibition themes and will include special lectures on feudal Japan and samurai history, children’s workshops and pop-up activities on traditional Japanese art forms, and special workshops for adults.

The exhibition is developed and organized by Contemporanea Progetti, Florence in collaboration with Museo Stibbert, Florence, Italy.

---