Object of the Month: May 2026

• Object name: Kimono fabric
• Material: Cotton
• Date made: Early 20th century
• Place made: Japan
• Gift of Dryad

Chosen by Shani Collis, Collections Access Officer

Children’s Day is celebrated on May 5th in Japan. It is a time for families to pray for the health and happiness of children. It also falls on ‘Golden Week’ a public holiday in Japan.

Historically, this was also the time of year when Samurai would clean and tend to their armour and weapons in readiness for the rainy season, so miniature sets of armour or samurai helmets are also displayed at this time and children may make origami helmets or paper fishes. This kimono fabric has a pattern of helmets, fans and swords.

The Object of the Month can be seen in person throughout March 2026 at Leicester Museum & Art Gallery.