This exquisite Tetsusabiji Uchidashi Gomai Dou Gusoku (Five-Plate Russet Iron Embossed Cuirass Armor), crafted in the 18th century, exemplifies the pinnacle of Edo-period samurai armor design and craftsmanship. Made from the finest materials available during this renowned period of Japanese history, this complete suit of armor embodies the traditional elegance and functional design characteristics of samurai martial attire. This type of armor would have been worn by an esteemed samurai of the Asano clan from Akino Kuni, within the Hiroshima Domain—the most prestigious branch of the famous clan.
Housed in its original paulownia wood storage box, this rare suit is complete and in pristine condition, a remarkable feat. All of the fine materials, including lacquerware plates, russet iron, silk and copper, coalesce into a beautiful and completely functional work of art. Before the Edo period, Japan had been experiencing internal wars for over 1000 years. Once the Tokugawa Shogunate unified the country and relocated the capital to Edo (present-day Tokyo), internal warfare greatly decreased. Even in the relatively peaceful Edo Period, however, superior armors were still crafted as many believed war would come again.
Please see the complete list of exceptional features of this rare suit of armor below.
The helmet is a five panel steel zunari kabuto, featuring turn backs (fukigaeshi), a peak (mabisashi) trimmed with gilded copper and stenciled doe skin showcasing the Asano clan’s crossed hawk feather heraldry. The neck guard (manju shikoro) is made from five black lacquered iron lames, complementing the mythically inspired, swordsmanship-celebrated russet iron mask (tengu men). The signed mask (tengu men) has a finely patinated exterior and a red lacquered interior, intensifying its fearsome visage. It features the image of a Tengu men, which are tree sprites and ruthless woodland protectors. The breastplate (dō) is made of five-plate russet iron, ornately mounted with scrolled gilded copper and features an embossed demon’s face with silver and shakudo eyes and gilded fangs on the breastplate. The skirt (kusazuri) comprises seven divisions, each with five lames of lacquered molded leather (nerikawa). The shoulder guards (sode) include six lames of lacquered iron, aesthetically matching the russet iron and adorned with the Asano clan markings. The armored sleeves (tsutsu gote) are made of russet iron and decorated to reflect the Asano clan. The thigh guards (haidate) and shin guards (tsutsu suneate) feature a roof tile (kawara) design with green tops (kikko tateage), aesthetically aligned with the cuirasse.
18th century
On base: 65 1/4" high x 25 3/4" wide x 22 5/8" deep (130.18 x 65.41 x 57.47 cm)
