Description

Mid-Edo Period | Certified Tokubetsu Kichō Shiryō This striking suit of Japanese samurai armor combines a commanding silhouette with a particularly noteworthy feature: its sixty-four-plate iron helmet bears the inscription “Nobuie saku” (信家作), meaning “made by Nobuie.” Helmets bearing the Nobuie name are highly prized by collectors of Japanese armor. The signature, recorded on the inside rear of the helmet bowl in the accompanying examination report, makes this an especially compelling suit for collectors who appreciate signed armor. The kabuto has a ribbed iron bowl with a patinated surface and a gold-leafed interior. Its gilded crescent-moon and holly-leaf crest creates a dramatic focal point above the black-lacquered iron face mask, which is fitted with a white moustache and beard. The black-lacquered two-piece cuirass is constructed from vertically joined iron plates. Its upper section features individual hardened-leather scales closely laced in dark blue, adding texture and depth to the armor’s strong, elegant form. Broad shoulder guards, dark blue lacing, and contrasting decorative details complete the impressive appearance of the ensemble. The arm defenses are fitted with black-lacquered iron splints, while the five-tier haidate thigh guards are made of black-lacquered iron laced in dark blue. The three-piece suneate shin guards are made of black-lacquered hardened leather, laced in light green. The armor is accompanied by a lacquered wooden storage/display box. This armor comes with a 3rd highest Certificate of The Association for the Research and Preservation of Japanese Helmets and Armor - Tokubetsu Kichō Shiryō This armor has been designated Tokubetsu Kichō Shiryō — Especially Precious Material — by the Japanese Armor and Arms Preservation Society.

Details from the shop

Item#

DJ05

Also Comes With

Wooden Display stand (new)

Period

Mid-Edo period

Helmet inscription

信家作 (Nobuie saku)

Certification number

No. 2485

Armor chest

Lacquered wood