Mon, the Japanese Heraldic Crest Artist: NA Date Created: NA
Date: March 18, 2008 EI Presenter: Delyn Dunham Artwork title: Mon, the Japanese heraldic crest Artist: NA Date Created: NA
These are the 5 most essential aspects of this work of art: 1. Mon may refer to any symbol. Kamon refer specifically to family crests. Similar function to badges, crests and family crests in European heraldry. Where European family crests are named for families, mons and kamons were named for the object represented, i.e. The Windsor Coat of Arms vs. Chrysanthemum, (the kamon of the imperial family since the 13th century). 2. Originated as fabric patterns, (6c – 8c) to be used on clothes in order to distinguish individuals or signify membership in a specific clan or organization Kamon, meaning family crest, can also be read as “family textile figure.” Most commonly seen in a roundel, encircling a figure of plant, animal, nature, architecture, object or design letter. 3. By the 12th century mons were used by nobility and the upper class to announce their authority They used them on carts, flags and clothing. In an illiterate society, they were useful symbols of recognition. 4. During the Warrior Society (15c -16c.) kamon played an important role to the feudal lords, identifying classes, and distinguishing allies from enemies on the battlefield. 5. In the early Edo period (17c-19c) only high class families used the family crest. When Tokugawa Shogunate united Japan, all battles stopped and Japan experienced peace and prosperity for over 200 years. By the middle of the Edo period, mons and kamons are frequently seen in Ukiyo-e prints.
These are the questions I would use when speaking with visitors: Example, Samurai Suit of Armor (1573-1615) ceremonial: 1. Does anyone know what this is? 2. What do you notice about the box it is standing on? 3. What design do you see on the Armor? 4. Why might a warrior want to show this symbol? 5. Do you ever wear any symbols? What of? Why?
With which tour would you use this object? Asia People and Places