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Unknown Maker, Japanese

Suit of Armor

Maker

Unknown Maker, Japanese

Culture

Japanese, Edo

Title

Suit of Armor

Year

1854

Medium

Materials/Techniques

Techniques

Geography

Origin: Japan

Credit / Object Number

Credit

Gift of Mrs. Leonard Colt

Object Number

43.033a-k

Type

Exhibition History

Daimyo Culture in Peacetime
Aug 17, 2018 – Apr 05, 2020

Label copy

This suit of armor was modeled after 16th-century prototypes known as tosei-gusoku, characterized by their durability and flexibility as well as lightness. The breastplate and backplate are hinged together on one side and fastened on the other. From them, a five-tiered protective skirt (kusazuri) is suspended with dark blue silk lacing. Under the skirt, a protective apron (haidate) made of lacquered iron plates and chain mail enhances the armor’s formidable appearance. The simple helmet complements the suit’s elegance and austerity, its neck guard (shikoro) extending downwards in tiers of horizontal strips. An iron mask juts out beneath the helmet, its fierce expression challenging any would-be attacker.

Despite its sturdy construction, this armor was never intended for battle. It probably made a handsome display for its owner, highlighting the family’s rank and status.

Bushido
The Way of the Samurai
Nov 01, 1985 – Feb 09, 1986

Image use

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Public Domain This object is in the Public Domain and available under a CC0 1.0 Universal (CC0 1.0) Public Domain Dedication

Tombstone

Unknown Maker, Japanese
Suit of Armor, 1854
Lacquered iron, silk, leather, wool fabric and cords
Gift of Mrs. Leonard Colt 43.033a-k

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