“Samurai: Japanese Armor,” from the Ann and Gabriel Barbier-Mueller Collection at the Los Angeles County Museum of Art, is an array of pieces that focuses on showing the evolution of Japanese samurai armor over the course of seven centuries. It features armor, poised in fighting positions, ranging from men on horseback to solo pieces highlighting individual aspects of the armor or specific weapons.
Upon entry to the exhibit, one is greeted by three gigantic horses with three different types of samurai armor riding on their backs, instantly setting the warlike tone of the entire exhibit. Additionally, the majority of the displays imitates a warrior stance, further immersing the viewer in the conflict-ridden lifestyle of feudal Japan. […]