Japanese Antique Samurai Doll, Edo Period, 1790s

Antique samurai doll called Hinaningyo; Japan, late EDO period Praised at the Tang-no-sekku boys' festival on May 5th as a sign of bravery, embodying the...

We have an aesthetic sense peculiar to Japanese people. And we introduce the unique items that only we can do, the route of purchasing in Japan, the experience value so far, and the way that no one can imitate. Japanese antique black chest "staircase chest...

This complete Edo-period samurai armor is an exceptional example of the refined martial elegance and ceremonial grandeur associated with Japan’s warrior aristocracy. Every component reflects a precise harmony of functionality, symbolism, and prestige. At the heart of the set is a superb suji-bachi kabuto, constructed from multiple riveted iron plates arranged with flawless symmetry and enriched by a beautifully aged patina. It is crowned with a gilt tehen no kanamono, and the imposing maedate presents a pair of antler-like blades framing a gilded sun disc an emblem of celestial authority and divine lineage. The Fukigaeshi feature extraordinary gilt dragon ornaments, carved in high relief. Dragons, ancient symbols of protection and power, were reserved for armor of the highest rank, strongly indicating that this set belonged to a Daimyō or high-ranking retainer. The menpō, lacquered in deep black, includes a natural-hair moustache and an articulated jaw (resseibō), lending the face a vivid sense of character. Below it, the shikoro is composed of finely lacquered blue-and-gold plates, meticulously laced with silk. The okegawa ni-mai dō cuirass is finished in a dark brown lacquer and laced in deep indigo silk, complemented by elegant orange ceremonial tassels a hallmark of formal presentation armor. The sode (shoulder guards) retain their rare bear-fur trimming, an expensive and status-laden material symbolizing courage and noble rank. Completing the ensemble are beautifully made kote, haidate, and suneate, each executed with rich fabrics and refined lacquer work. A butterfly mon (chō-mon) appears on the leg guards an elegant symbol of transformation, adding a poetic contrast to the armor’s martial presence. The extensive use of gilding, the rare bear-fur details, and the prominent dragon motifs confirm this as a piece created for the highest echelons of samurai society. It is a masterpiece where ceremonial artistry, symbolism, and authority converge. Artistic and Historical Significance This armor epitomizes the Edo-period ideal, when arms and armor transcended their battlefield origins and became expressions of identity, dignity, and cultural refinement. The interplay of dark lacquer, golden ornamentation, and natural materials embodies the spirit of bushidō discipline, inner strength, and beauty through restraint. Whether displayed in a private collection, gallery, office, or interior setting, this armor commands attention. Its presence transforms any space, making it a truly museum-worthy centerpiece for collectors of Japanese, military, or historical art. The set includes its traditional stand and storage box. As with all antique armor...

A Japanese Edo-Meiji period Palanquin chair for the childrens festival. The form with sliding and hinged doors, decorated in gold hiramaki-e with peonies ...

A pair of antique Japanese samurai Abumi (horse riding stirrups) from the Edo period (1615-1868) Abumi often have a distinctive shape, curving up and backward at the front to achiev...

A pair of Edo period black and gold lacquer Samurai helmet boxes (Hakko Bako), each of ribbed cylindrical form with a lid, a black lacquer interior,...

This is Hagi ware made in the middle of the Edo period. Hagi ware is a type of pottery that began in Hagi City, Yamaguchi Prefecture in the early Edo period...

An antique red lacquer stem dish from Japan, circa 17th century (Momoyama to early Edo period). This type of red lacquer finish is known as Negoro lacquer. It was developed by the me...

A bronze Model of a Heron Maiden holding a fish basket Japanese, Meiji Period late 19th century realistically rendered, all finely patinated, Signed Height 18.87 in. (46 cm.)

It is an old jar baked in Japan. It seems to be in the Edo period (1700s-1800s). The unique distorted shape is beautiful. The color and balance of the gla...