A piece of Japanese armor was once used to protect the heads of soldiers

. It is known as a kabuto and was typically made of iron plates, connected by leather or silk lacing. The top of the kabuto often had a crest, called a maedate, which was meant to intimidate the enemy. Kabuto were often embellished with various designs and motifs, reflecting the status and rank of the wearer. The kabuto was usually worn with a face mask called a menpo, as well as a neck guard called a shikoro. Together, these pieces of armor provided essential protection for the head and face in battle.