The Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City is currently hosting the exhibit “Art of the Samurai: Japanese Arms and Armor, 1156-1868." This exhibit is the decade-long project of Morihiro Ogawa, the Met's consultant for Japanese arms and armor. Most of the pieces included in the exhibit are designated National Treasures or Important Cultural Properties. Several, such as the 12th century cavalry armor, will only be on display for two weeks of the months long show. The show includes every piece of Japanese arms and armor: the helmet, the body armor, the sword, and the sheath. Some designs are simple and elegant; others are pure ostentatious and showy. The exhibit emphasizes the cultural and aesthetic extremes of Japanese culture, permitting the public access to a rare artistic treat. The exhibit runs through January 10. Join discussion...