Lords of the Samurai by Yoko Woodson

The Legacy of a Daimyo Family

240 pages, Hardcover

31cm x 23.5cm

FIRST EDITION 2009

ISBN 9780939117468

Goodreads Rating: 4.25 * 4 ratings * 0 reviews

Genres: Nonfiction/Reference/History/Martial Arts/Biography

The term "Samurai" translates to "he who serves," representing the fierce warriors who dedicated their lives to serving powerful feudal lords known as daimyo. One of the most prominent daimyo families was the Hosokawa clan, with a lineage dating back six hundred years. "Lords of the Samurai" delves into the private and public lives of these daimyo, showcasing around 160 artifacts from the Hosokawa family collection displayed in various museums in Tokyo and Kyushu.

From suits of armor to tea ware, this collection includes a wide array of objects that provide insight into the world of the samurai. The book features contributions from Hosokawa Morihiro, the eighteenth-generation head of the Hosokawa family, and Takeuchi Junichi, the director of the Eisei-Bunko Museum. Yoko Woodson, curator of Japanese art at the Asian Art Museum, and Deborah Clearwaters, director of education at the same museum, also share their expertise on the history and artistry of the samurai.

"Lords of the Samurai" reveals that these Japanese warriors were not just skilled fighters, but also men of culture and honor. It explores the enduring principles that shaped the spirit of the samurai, showcasing their legacy that continues to inspire and resonate today. Dive into the world of the samurai and uncover the fascinating history and artistry that defined these legendary warriors.