Description
About US:
Our photographs are taken without retouching or photoshop to ensure that the customer can judge the reality of the object. Thanks to a constant work directly with the best collectors, museums and galleries in Japan and friendship with them, along with a profit margin much lower than the European competition we can offer objects so that many people can choose to have authentic pieces with hundreds of years at more than competitive prices. After all, samurai art is our passion and we want to share it with the world.
About The armor:
It Comes with certificate of SupeinNihonto.
ITEM:
Complete Daimyō Armor — Edo Period (ca. 1750)
An exceptional tōsei gusoku armor set of daimyō class, crafted in black lacquered iron with kon ito odoshi (dark blue silk lacing) and lavish gilded fittings. This ensemble epitomizes the prestige and refined taste of a high-ranking feudal lord during mid-Edo Japan.
Detailed Analysis
Kabuto (helmet):
A superb 32 plate suji bachi kabuto, black lacquered and surmounted by a gilded tehen no kanamono. The imposing maedate features a gilt brass crest in a stylized “U” shape with a central five-petal mon, a clear mark of aristocratic lineage. Fine engraved floral panels adorn the lower rim of the bowl.
The facial armor (mengu) is of ressei men type, lacquered in dark reddish-black with a natural moustache, expressing both authority and serenity.
Dō (cuirass):
An elegant okegawa ni-mai dō (two-section barrel cuirass), lacquered in deep black and adorned with an outstanding gilded relief of a shishi (lion dog), the mythical guardian symbolizing courage and protection. The balanced color composition—deep blue cords with ivory and ochre highlights—embodies harmony and restrained luxury.
Sode (shoulder guards):
Large, symmetrical plates with refined golden rims and dark blue cords, denoting a high-ranking owner.
Kote (armored sleeves):
Made of small iron plates connected by mail (kusari), reinforced with ridged forearm guards. A delicate golden blossom at the elbow further indicates noble status.
Haidate (thigh guards):
Composed of black-lacquered scales laced with blue silk, flexible and protective.
Suneate (shin guards):
Finely decorated with hexagonal kikkō motifs on blue fabric, finished with fur-lined lower edges and vivid pink and violet ties—an aesthetic contrast typical of ceremonial daimyō armor.
Materials and craftsmanship:
Iron, lacquer, silk, gilt copper, and brass. The gilded shishi relief and engraved helmet ornaments attest to high-level Edo armory workshops working under daimyō patronage.
Historical and Aesthetic Significance
This armor exemplifies the ideal Edo balance between martial functionality and courtly opulence. The visual composition of black, gold, and blue conveys authority, discipline, and elegance. Such sets were reserved for high ceremonies or parades, yet remained fully functional. The guardian shishi underscores the daimyō’s protective and sovereign role.
Technical Sheet
| Element | Description |
|---|---|
| Armor type | Tōsei gusoku (modern armor) |
| Period | Edo, ca. 1750 |
| Materials | Lacquered iron, silk, gilt copper, brass, leather |
| Main colors | Black lacquer, dark blue cords, gold accents |
| Kabuto | 32-plate suji bachi kabuto with brass “U” crest and floral mon |
| Mengu | Ressei men with natural moustache |
| Dō | Okegawa ni-mai dō with gilded shishi relief |
| Sode | Large black-lacquered shoulder guards |
| Kote | Iron sleeves with mail and floral gilt detail |
| Haidate | Lacquered scales with blue cords |
| Suneate | Kikkō motif shin guards with fur finish |
| Origin | Japan, mid-Edo period |
| Condition | Excellent, original lacquer and gilding preserved |
An authentic samurai armor that will be the central focus of any room where it is placed and that will delight any fan of Japanese art. A great stylish piece that will impress anywhere.As is normal in a suit of armor with so much history, which was undoubtedly used for combat and is not a mere reproduction of the 20th century, it has some superficial scratches, surface damage and chips that show that it had a long life of combat and retains an authentic and precious historical value worthy of a museum. This exclusive piece is making it an incredible opportunity for any collector of Japanese, war or simply historical art to get their hands on a piece that will attract attention wherever it is displayed, from offices, to private homes, offices or restaurants and will give a regal look to any place. The armour has gilded details that show the quality of the piece. The incredible workmanship accentuates such ornate pieces as the kabuto, the mempo and the Do. The stand to assemble it and the box are included. This armour is sure to delight any collector of Asian art and will be the focal point of any visitor’s home, shop or office. There is a very ancient object and there are damaged by time and tears. Due to the delicacy of continuous assembly and disassembly, returns are not allowed on old armor.
