Rare Japanese circular jingasa with a gradual domed top, made of iron and decorated with a dragon flying in raised, billowing clouds. The dragon's eyes are of inlaid gold, the rim of the jingasa is bronze and the dome's top has a copper ring tama buchi. The underside is lacquered red. The samurai class in feudal Japan, as well as their retainers and footsoldiers (ashigaru), used several types of jingasa made from iron, copper, wood, paper, bamboo, or leather. Age: Edo Period (1603-1867) Dimensions (not including stand): 16" wide x 3 1/2" high