Akitsu-shima Online Gallery
Akitsushima is the ancient poetic name for Japan - Land of the Dragonflies
The armours on display are more than historical artefacts; they are living testaments to a world where symbol, spirit, and martial beauty formed an indivisible whole. In that world, the dragonfly was never merely an insect — it was the very soul of the warrior.
Kachimushi - the "victory insect" (Dragonfly)
Dragonflies have held a revered place in Japan’s cultural and spiritual heritage for centuries. For the samurai, it was far more than a decorative element; it embodied courage, determination, and unwavering resolve. A dragonfly never retreats — it moves only forward — making it the perfect emblem for the warrior’s path, defined by fearless advance and unshakeable purpose.
Samurai Armour
The presented armours are from Momoyama (XVI c.) and Edo (XVII -XIX c.) periods.
We make no claim to be experts in the field of Samurai armour. What follows is simply the record of a personal journey — an attempt to understand, as best we can, a subject that has become a true passion for us. Together with my wife, we have devoted our time and resources to exploring and preserving these remarkable expressions of craftsmanship and spirit from Japan’s past.
Samurai armour is a complex and often elusive field, where knowledge is fragmented and interpretation demands patience, humility, and respect for history. While errors may be inevitable in a work of this kind, our hope is that the contents of this catalogue may, even in some small way, contribute to a greater appreciation of the history, aesthetics, and symbolism of Samurai armour — and of the Samurai themselves.
The unifying motif of this collection is the dragonfly — kachimushi, the “victory insect”. In Japanese tradition, the dragonfly symbolises courage, determination, focus, and constant forward motion, as it never retreats in flight. We have come to identify deeply with this symbolism, as it reflects our own nature: steadfast, determined, and always moving forward, regardless of the obstacles we face. It is this spirit that has guided us in creating both this collection and this catalogue.
Wiktoria and Adam Jurgilewicz
Mission of the “Akitsushima – Samurai Armour Collection of Wiktoria and Adam Jurgilewicz”
Our mission is to preserve, study and present the Samurai heritage, with particular emphasis on the symbolism of kachimushi – the “victory insect”, a poetic name for the dragonfly, a sign of courage, determination and victory in Japanese culture.
The aims of the collection are:
• Preservation of original armour, helmets and accessories from the samurai era through professional conservation and documentation.
• Dissemination of knowledge about the history and spiritual values of the Samurai in Poland and across Europe through exhibitions, publications and educational programmes.
• Building cultural bridges between Japan and Poland – the collection serves as an ambassador of Japanese tradition in Europe.
• Honouring donors and master craftsmen by recording their names in exhibit labels, catalogues and publications.
We believe that every donated item or financial contribution is not only a material gift but also a piece of history which will remain alive for future generations. We are committed to caring for the entrusted heritage and presenting it in a manner worthy of the Samurai spirit.
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