The family crest as a symbol of individual families in Japan There are various theories, but the origin of family crests (mon) among the samurai class is generally traced back to the late Heian period through the early Kamakura period, when they began to be used on flags and camp banners. During the conflicts between the Minamoto and Taira clans, the Minamoto used white flags and the Taira used red flags to distinguish friend from foe. However, as numerous families aligned themselves within each camp, there arose a need for additional identifying marks—distinctive family crests that served as proof of lineage and identity. According to genealogical records compiled by the Nanbu clan of Morioka Domain (also known as the San-nohe Nanbu), the Nanbu family lineage begins with Nanbu Nobunaka, third son of Kaga no Miotohikata (Yoshiari), a descendant of the Seiwa Genji. Examining the family crests adopted by the Nanbu clan as emblems of identity allows us to trace aspects of their history and collective identity. This exhibition explores how the Nanbu family used their crests through historical artifacts such as armor, weapons, ceremonial garments, furnishings, and documents referencing "family crests." Immerse yourself in the world of the Nanbu family, where every object bears their distinctive mon. d141165-157-6d54ff15d9cde0fb8b1a065162098699.pdf Exhibition Contents ◆ Nanbu Family Crests as Seen in Historical Documents Focuses on historical records detailing the five primary crests predominantly used by the Morioka Nanbu family. ◆ Artifacts Featuring Family Crests Displays materials illustrating the Nanbu clan's legacy as Sengoku warlords and their status and prestige as feudal lords, viewable up close. 【Exhibition Highlights】 For the first time in one venue, four suits of armor historically associated with the Nanbu family will be exhibited together, including the "Iron-plated Black Lacquered Horizontal-Stave Barrel-Side Two-Plate Chest Armor with Indigo Thread Front S