Age: Momoyama-Early Edo.

Details: This early period set has some rare finely crafted features. The Do is an example of a style called Hishinui which has been constructed of cross lacing that has been skillfully lacquered over. The Do also has its original gyoyo with the Tomoe family crest. The principle families using the crest were the Utsunomiya, Koyama and the Yuki. The edges of the Do have been finished with finely engraved fukurin. The top edge has beautifully engraved silver trim with the Tomoe crest on the rivets. An extremely rare feature of the Do is the intregally designed wakibiki which were designed to protect the underarm area during battle. The wakibiki is constructed of multiple matching lacquered plates and represents an original feature of the early style Gusoku. The Kabuto is a rare early example of a Kawari style referred to as "Toppai". This 32 plate example is the first we have seen. Most of the Momoyama period pieces have a much lower plate count. There is a small indentation on the left side from a Matchlock being fired at it. The Kabuto comes with a handcrafted fierce oni style Maedate. A Ressei Men style Menpo in very good condition matches the Kabuto. The Kote, Suneate and Sode all feature gorgeous handcrafted metalwork and the numerous examples of the Tomoe crest. The top portion of the Suneate feature a rare heavy double link chainmail design with applied engraved circular floral metalwork. The original hemp liners on the Suneate are in remarkable condition. The Haidate is composed of rawhide plates covered in thick lacquer and may have been restored at a different time or an Edo period replacement piece. The Kote also features the same heavy chainmail with a large splendid Tomoe crest made of pierced metal on the upper portion of the arm. Overall the condition is well above average and has been finely maintained and partially restored as was common during the Edo period. A matching pair of Bitsu "armor boxes" comes with the Gusoku. One large one for holding the largest armor parts and a smaller one to hold the Kabuto. The red lacquer crest on each box is a "Yahasu" or arrow notch type. Within the box is an older document that translates to a list of which items go in each box.

This is a unique opportunity to own a fine suit at or below wholesale cost.

Inquiries: It is our goal at Shogun Armory and Shogun Art to provide the finest in rare antique Japanese Fine Art and Samurai Armor. We are privileged to serve many collectors, museums and dealers from around the world. If you have an inquiry regarding a specific item please contact us at 1-877-827-8157. Or send us an e-mail and include your name and item number. Don't forget to visit at our website Shogun Art.

The items listed on our website represent a very small part of our inventory. If you are looking for specific items please let us know as we may already have just what you are looking for. If we don’t currently have an item we can certainly locate it for you. We have the best direct sources of antique Samurai Armor in the world working with us.

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