18th Century Japanese Armor, Edo Period

This 18th-century Japanese armor exemplifies the refinement and ingenuity of Edo-period armorers, an era marked by relative peace under the Tokugawa shogunate. Although it is composite, this armor retains a strong aesthetic and functional coherence. (Japanese composite armor assembly of elements from various periods or origins)Helmet (Kabuto) Momonari type: shape inspired by the European morion helmet, characterized by a rounded line that evokes a peach cut in half, ensuring good deflection of blows. Brown lacquer applied to protect the metal and give a sober but elegant finish.Neck guard (shikoro): composed of four articulated slats, in brown lacquer, laced blue to ensure flexibility and protection against blows to the back of the skull.Fins (fukigaeshi): decorated with a môn mari basami, a family heraldic emblem in metal, symbolizing the samurai's belonging to a specific clan.Visor (mabisashi): covered with printed leather, a rare and decorative finish that attests to superior quality armor.Mask (Menpo) Ressei type: expressive iron mask brown lacquered, characterized by severe and intimidating features. Brown horsehair mustache, added to accentuate the terrifying appearance. Red lacquered interior: a tradition intended to prevent corrosion while symbolizing courage. Throat guard (yodarekake): composed of four brown lacquered iron lamellas, laced in blue to harmonize with the rest of the armor. Breastplate (Dô) Mogamidô type: breastplate with interlocking plates, lacquered in black, offering flexibility and lightness while ensuring excellent protection. Skirt (kusazuri): with five lamellas, also lacquered in black and laced in blue, protecting the lower torso and hips. Additional protective elements of Japanese armor Shoulder guards (sode): made of gilded metal, composed of six blue laced lamellas, combining defensive effectiveness and prestigious ornamentation. Bracers (kote): of the shino type, made of black lacquered iron and combined with reinforced fabric to protect the arms without restrict movement.Underskirt (haidate): kawara plates of black lacquered iron, attached to a rich blue brocade, providing elegant protection for the thighs.Leggings (suneate): shino type, made of black lacquered iron mounted on fabric to protect the shins while facilitating movement.AccessoriesBox (yoroi bitsu): wooden, used to store and transport the armor when not being worn. (Some visible accidents on certain parts of the armor, testifying to its antiquity and use.)Characteristics and Symbolism The elements of this armor reflect both the practical aspect and the symbolism of the samurai. Thus, the brown and black lacquer, combined with the blue of the laces, gives a sobriety and elegance typical of the Edo period. Also, the gold ornaments and brocades testify to the high social status of the wearer. While details such as the mon signal its belonging to a specific clan. Finally, this armor, although composite, illustrates the harmonious combination of defensive techniques and elaborate aesthetics. Specific to an era when armor was no longer only functional, but also works of art and symbols of prestige.