Japanese Red Samurai Armour Beginning of Meiji period 1900s

Hanten is a type of traditional Japanese garment that is often referred to as a "short coat" or "jacket". `it has a loose, kimono-like design with a straight collar and is typically ...

This is a jacket with cotton which was made in Japan. These kind of jackets are called Hanten in Japanese. Hanten is a short jacket similar to a haori, but without a gusset. It is w...

This is an antique combat helmet made around 1800s in Edo era in Japan. Kabuto is a type of helmet first used by ancient Japanese warriors which, in later periods, became an important part of the traditional Japanese armour...

This is a silk jacket which was made in Japan. It was made in Showa era around 1980s. The haori is a traditional Japanese hip- or thigh-length jacket worn over a kimono. Resembling ...

Suit of red lacquer Japanese fighting armour of the late Edo period, (1716-1868). Desirable coral red lacquer is original and unrestored. Composed of a helmet, (Kabuto) breast plate (Do) and shoulder, arm protection (chainmail). Displayed with a later recreation expressive face plate of modern manufacture (nose, mustache). Also displayed with (photos 3 & 4) a period red lacquer partial face plate (Hambo) with replacement throat guards. All of the assembled parts are of same age, quality and color. Old silk and linen sleeve and helmet linings decayed or shredding. The Meiji period wood...

Amazing and unique Samuraï armor. End of XIXth century, early XXth century. Nimai do Okegawa gusoku (2 plate with barrel form cuirasse armor). Composed o...

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...

Amazing and unique Samuraï armor. Early XXth century. Composed of an iron helmet mounted with large standing rivets and "Kuwagata" decoration (shoe shaped decoration) on the front. R...