{"id":37755,"date":"2023-06-14T16:08:10","date_gmt":"2023-06-14T07:08:10","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.samuraimuseum.jp\/shop\/?post_type=product&p=37755"},"modified":"2024-10-01T15:39:04","modified_gmt":"2024-10-01T06:39:04","slug":"antique-late-edo-period-samurai-armor-tokubetsu-kicho-shiryo-certificate-a-29","status":"publish","type":"product","link":"https:\/\/www.samuraimuseum.jp\/shop\/product\/antique-late-edo-period-samurai-armor-tokubetsu-kicho-shiryo-certificate-a-29\/","title":{"rendered":"Antique Late Edo Period Samurai Armor Tokubetsu Kicho Shiryo<\/span><\/strong> Certificate (A-29)"},"content":{"rendered":"

Antique late Edo Period Samurai Armor<\/span>\u00a0Tokubetsu Kicho Shiryo<\/span> Certificate (A-29)<\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

Period: Late Edo Period<\/strong>
\nappraised by The Association for the Research and Preservation of Japanese Helmets and Armor<\/span><\/p>\n

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Kabuto (helmet)<\/strong><\/span>
\n\u25a0Helmet bowl: Suji Kabuto<\/span>
\n\u00a0The Kabuto (\u515c, helmet) is a protector for the head. When people started using the Kabuto, it was initially designed for practical use. However, the principal purpose of its design has changed with time; Samurai warriors tried to express their dignity, personality, or religion by wearing the characteristic designed Kabutos. According to a theory, these uniquely designed Kabutos were made from the late Muromachi (\u5ba4\u753a\u5f8c\u671f, 1467-1573) to the Edo period (\u6c5f\u6238, 1603-1868). This type of Kabuto is categorized as the Kawari Kabuto (\u5909\u308f\u308a\u515c), and a variety of materials were used to create them. For example, animal fur, seashells, plants, and paper were used as materials for decoration.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0Here we would like to introduce to you a little bit more about the history of Kabutos. Before the Kawari Kabuto\u2019s production, the Suji Kabuto (\u7b4b\u515c) appeared during the Nanbokuchou (\u5357\u5317\u671d, 1337-1392) period. At that time, the tactic was gradually changed from the piggyback fight style to battle with the Tachi (\u592a\u5200) sword and the Naginata (\u8599\u5200, Japanese halberd) on the ground. Therefore, there was a rise in demand for the weight-saving of the Kabuto. Also, in order to turn the attack by swords, a new type of structure was invented: the Suji Kabuto (\u7b4b\u515c). Its form slides swords\u2019 attacks when weapons hit the Kabuto. It is said that the production of the Suji Kabuto prospered in the Muromachi (\u5ba4\u753a, 1336-1573) period. We estimate this Kabuto is one of these Suji Kabutos made in that tendency in the Edo period. It has 18 stripes in this Kabuto, meaning 18 small iron plates are connected. It is called Ju Hachi Ken Suji Kabuto (\u5341\u516b\u9593\u7b4b\u515c). Ju Hachi means 18 in Japanese. The surface is painted with black lacquer.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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\u25a0Shikoro (side neck guard):<\/span>
\n\u00a0Iron plates laced with white threads.<\/span><\/p>\n

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\u25a0Fukikaeshi (side neck guard): Kuruma Mon<\/span>
\n\u00a0The Fukikaeshi (\u5439\u304d\u8fd4\u3057) is both ends of a Kabuto. It protects the face from swords and also shows its beautiful workmanship. Family crests are sometimes designed on this part, as seen on this Kabuto. The family crest of this Kabuto is colored with golden paint. And the same crests are depicted on its Mabisashi (\u7709\u5e87\/\u76ee\u5e87, eaves of the bowl on the front of the helmet) also. We believe this family crest’s motif is a kind of Kuruma Mon (\u8eca\u7d0b). In modern times, there are cars as a means of transportation, but in the past, oxcarts using cows were common. Heian aristocrats primarily used it, and the wheel part of an oxcart came to be used as a family crest.<\/span><\/p>\n

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\u25a0Menpo (face guard): Hanb\u014d<\/span>
\n\u00a0This type of half mask is called the Hanb\u014d (\u534a\u982c) and was popular as it was easier to breathe than the full mask covering his nose. The purpose of Menpo was not only to protect Samurai\u2019s face. But also to hide their true faces so that their psychological states were unaffected.<\/span><\/p>\n

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\u25a0 Maedate (Front decoration): Itsutsu Hisago<\/span>
\n\u00a0The family crest of this Kabuto’s Maedatemono (\u524d\u7acb\u7269, front decoration) is colored with golden paint. And it is called the Itsutsu Hisago Mon (\u4e94\u3064\u74e2\u7d0b), which is categorized in the Hisago (\u74e2, gourd-generally called Hyoutan in Japanese) pattern. The Itsutsu Hisago Mon draws five gourds in the shape of a car by putting their heads together. Since ancient times, Japanese people have appreciated this plant design as an auspicious motif. For example, a Hisago is written as \u201c\u74e2,\u201d which can also be read as \u201cHyou.\u201d Therefore, three Hisagos were considered the San-Byoushi (\u4e09\u62cd\u5b50, triple time, \u62cd\u5b50 can also be pronounced as Hyoushi). And people compared six Hisagos to Mubyou Sokusai (\u7121\u75c5\u606f\u707d, be in perfect health). It is because the word \u201c\u75c5 (Byou)\u201d has the same pronunciation as \u201c\u74e2 (it also can be read as Byou).\u201d Also, the Hisago pattern represents success in business and the prosperity of descendants as this plant produces lots of fruits. These meanings tell you how Japanese people love this design based on its acting superstitiously for good luck.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0Now let\u2019s briefly touch on an example of the relationship between the Hisago motif and the Samurai culture. Toyotomi Hideyoshi (\u8c4a\u81e3 \u79c0\u5409, 1537-1598) is one of the most famous Samurais during the Warring States period (1467-1615). According to a theory, his Umajirushi (\u99ac\u5370, a massive flag raised near the general Samurai on the battlefield) was the Senari-Byoutan (\u5343\u6210\u74e2\u7baa). He was given the Hisago motif for his Umajirushi from Oda Nobunaga (\u7e54\u7530 \u4fe1\u9577, 1534-1582). It is said he added gourds every time he won the battles. We imagine this plant motif has been treated as an auspicious symbol and cherished among Samurai warriors.<\/span><\/p>\n

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Armor<\/span><\/strong>
\n\u25a0D\u014d (cuirass):\u00a0 Nimai D\u014d
\n\u00a0Nimai D\u014d is a kind of cuirass for Tousei Gusoku (\u5f53\u4e16\u5177\u8db3, developed armor style). Nimai D\u014d (\u4e8c\u679a\u80f4) was named after the fact that Nimai (\u4e8c\u679a) means two plates, and D\u014d (\u80f4) means torso in Japanese. Instead of using a large number of small lamellar plates called Kozane (\u5c0f\u672d), this cuirass used large iron plates riveted.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0One feature that characterizes this armor is the dragon design drawn on the D\u014d. The figure of the dragon is expressed using high-quality gold. Its appearance gives us a majestic and powerful impression. This dragon is depicted with the Makie (\u8494\u7d75) technique. It is a typical Japanese lacquer art technique developed uniquely in Japan for about 1,200 years. Firstly, it needs to draw a picture with lacquer on the surface with a thin brush. Next, sprinkle the gold powder from above to show the pattern before the lacquer hardens. This technique makes a gorgeous and elegant look to works, as seen here.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0Initially, the dragon was an imaginary creature found in ancient foreign traditions or myths. Furthermore, it is regarded as a symbolic beast of auspicious signs. Its body is likened to nine animals: antlers are deer, the head is a camel, eyes are demons, the neck is a snake, the belly is Mizuchi (\u86df, a mythical animal in Japan that looks like a snake and has a horn and four legs), scales are fish, claws are falcons, palms are tigers and ears are cows. It was thought that the dragon would reign at the top of all animals because of its odd-looking appearance.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0In addition, if you focus on this dragon\u2019s left hand, you will find that it brings a ball-shaped object in its hand. It is the Nyoi Houju (\u5982\u610f\u5b9d\u73e0, Cint\u0101ma\u1e47i), a fantasy jewel that fulfills any desire and gives out treasure, clothes, food, and drinks. Moreover, it heals illness and suffering, removes evils, purifies muddy water, and prevents disasters. It is said this magical item is taken from the brain of the dragon king.<\/span><\/p>\n

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\u25a0Kusazuri (skirt of plates attached to the cuirass):<\/span>
\n\u00a0Lacquered iron Kusazuri laced with white threads. There are parts where the cords that support these plates are broken; it is necessary to adjust them appropriately with strings, lines, etcetera, when displaying this armor.<\/span><\/p>\n

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Small parts<\/span><\/strong>
\n\u25a0Kote (armored sleeves):<\/span>
\n\u00a0Intricate iron chain mail with silk.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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\u25a0Haidate (thigh protection):
\n\u00a0The Haidate (\u4f69\u696f) is a thigh guard. Unlike other parts, navy blue threads are used to tie metal plates.\u00a0
\n<\/span><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n

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\u25a0Suneate (shin guard):
\n\u00a0The Kikkou (\u4e80\u7532, turtle\u2019s shell) pattern is used for the cloth of the Suneate (\u811b\u5f53). It is a continuous geometric pattern connecting regular hexagons up and down. A theory says that this design was brought from China and the Korean Peninsula during the Asuka (\u98db\u9ce5, 592-710) and Nara (\u5948\u826f, 710-794) periods. A proverb says turtles live long lives; therefore, turtle and turtle shell patterns represent longevity. In addition, as this continuous hexagonal pattern does not get out of its shape, it is said people wished for eternal prosperity by using this design.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n

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\u25a0Gattari (Sashimono holder):<\/span>
\n\u00a0If you focus on the back of this armor, you will find a black-colored metal plate attached. It is a gear called the Gattari (\u5408\u5f53\u7406) that supports the upper part of the Sashimono (\u6307\u7269, a frag or decorative sign installed at the back of armor). And the Uketsutsu (\u53d7\u7b52)\/ Sashidutsu (\u6307\u7b52) is a tube to store a Sashimono. Samurai warriors judged their sides and enemies on the battlefields by checking the motifs designed for flags. Especially in group battles with infantry, this method was very effective because they could instantly identify affiliations.<\/span><\/p>\n

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\u25a0Kacchu-Hitsu (armor box):<\/span>
\n\u00a0You would find a gold-colored mark on the side of this armor box. We think it is designed as a family crest here. The Hidari-ni Sankai Matsu Mon (\u5de6\u306b\u4e09\u968e\u677e\u7d0b) is probably its theme, which is categorized as a type of the Matsu (\u677e, pine tree) pattern. Since pine trees keep their green color throughout the years by withstanding severe heat and cold, people thought this plant pattern represents eternal youth. Furthermore, its color is called the Tokiwa-Iro (\u5e38\u76e4\u8272, evergreen trees\u2019 dark green color with brown), and pine trees have another name Tokiwa-Gi (\u5e38\u76e4\u6728). Tokiwa means immutability, so Tokiwa-Iro is a color that praises green with a wish for longevity and prosperity.<\/span><\/p>\n

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Certification<\/span><\/strong>: Tokubetsu Kicho Shiryo Certificate (No. 1887)<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0On May 30th 2021, this armor was appraised as a Tokubetsu Kicho Shiryo by The Association for the Research and Preservation of Japanese Helmets and Armor, which is the most trusted Japanese armor appraiser in Japan. Tokubestu Kicho Shiryo means special rare article. It is ranked as the third highest of five rankings.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0The paper mentions the armor was made in the late Edo period (mid 18th-mid 19th)<\/strong>. You can receive this original authentication paper.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

An English translation of the certificate is available on request. We won\u2019t charge any additional fee.<\/span><\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

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\n

\u3010About us\u3011<\/span><\/strong>
\n\u00a0Samurai Museum is located in Tokyo, Japan, exhibiting antique artifacts related to the Samurai history. Samurai Museum Shop is the place for those who are interested in Japanese culture and craftsmanship. We deal with antique Samurai swords\/armor, traditional crafts made in Japan and so on. <\/span><\/p>\n

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\u3010Antique Japanese Armor and Export process\u3011<\/strong><\/span>
\n\u00a0After receiving the full payment from you, we will apply for its export permit from the agency for Cultural Affairs to legally export the antique Samurai armor to other countries. It normally takes around 2-4 weeks\u00a0<\/strong>to receive this permit. And we would like you to expect at least 1-1.5 months<\/strong> for your order to arrive at your given address after you ordered.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u3010Payment method\u3011<\/strong><\/span>
\n\u00a0We accept payment through Stripe<\/strong> (Credit card), PayPal<\/strong>, Apple Pay or ChromePay, all of which are secure payment methods. Also, you don\u2019t need to make an account on Stripe for the checkout. If you prefer other payment method, please contact us. You may either pay in JPY<\/strong>, USD<\/strong>, AUD<\/strong>, CAD<\/strong>, EUR<\/strong>, CHF<\/strong> or GBP<\/strong>. The price is set in Japanese Yen. Prices in other currencies are automatically calculated based on the latest exchange rate.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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\u3010Shipping duration\u3011<\/strong><\/span>
\n\u00a0We normally ship via EMS (Express Mail Service) provided by Japan Post. It usually takes at least 5-14 days to deliver the package after you place an order. <\/span>We offer Free International Shipping<\/strong><\/span> as long as we can ship your order by EMS. If you prefer other shipping carriers, please contact us. \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0We will inform you of the order\u2019s tracking number via email. Please make sure you fill out your valid email address correctly.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

*Please keep in mind that due to the spread of COVID-19, there might be possible delays in delivery. If you like to make sure if EMS shipping is available to your country, please contact us.<\/span><\/strong><\/p>\n

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\u3010How to make sure the condition\u3011<\/strong><\/span>
\n\u00a0Please keep in mind that what you are going to purchase is an antique item. We uploaded high resolution photos for you to check its condition thoroughly. If you like to see more photos with different angles, please feel free to contact us. We will be happy to send them to you so that you can make informed decision. It is essential for us to know that you are happy with your choice of a sword. and we are prepared to use the best of our ability to serve you.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u3010How To Contact Us\u3011<\/strong><\/span>
\nPlease contact us through email, Facebook Messenger or Live Chat if you have any questions. You can find each icon on the right side of the website. Please click one of them to reach us. We will reply to you within 1-2 business days.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u3010How To Preserve Antique Samurai Armor\u3011<\/strong><\/span>
\nDryness, humidity, and bad ventilation might deteriorate the condition of antique Samurai armor. The best temperature to preserve Samurai armor is around 20\u2103 in Celsius, and humidity should be about 60%.\u00a0 Direct sunlight should be avoided. We recommend storing armors in a room with good ventilation. If you like to display them outside the boxes for a prolonged time, we suggest using a glass case in order for dust not to be accumulated easily. In case you don’t use a glass case, please make sure to regularly dust off from the armor by using a soft brush made of delicate cloth or brush for painting.<\/span><\/p>\n

If you like to know more about the preservation of this armor, please feel free to<\/span> contact us<\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/a>.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

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Included:\u00a0<\/strong><\/span>
\nTokubetsu Kicho Shiryo Authentication Paper, Samurai Armor, Armor Stand, Armor Storage Box, Full Exportation Support<\/span><\/p>\n

Delivery Date:<\/strong><\/span>
\n1.0-1.5<\/strong> month after you place an order<\/span>
\n*There might be delay in shipment depending on countries<\/span><\/p>\n

Size:<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n\n
Vertical<\/strong><\/span><\/td>\nWidth<\/strong><\/span><\/td>\nHeight<\/strong><\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
45 cm<\/span><\/td>\n60 cm<\/span><\/td>\n134 cm<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n

*The size refers to when you display the armor on the box*1 inch=2.54cm<\/span><\/p>\n","protected":false},"featured_media":37766,"template":"","meta":[],"product_brand":[],"product_cat":[21,17],"product_tag":[],"class_list":{"0":"post-37755","1":"product","2":"type-product","3":"status-publish","4":"has-post-thumbnail","6":"product_cat-real-armor","7":"product_cat-armor","9":"first","10":"outofstock","11":"shipping-taxable","12":"purchasable","13":"product-type-simple","14":"add-to-wishlist-after_add_to_cart","15":"customify-col","16":"product-has-gallery"},"aioseo_notices":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.samuraimuseum.jp\/shop\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/product\/37755","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.samuraimuseum.jp\/shop\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/product"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.samuraimuseum.jp\/shop\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/product"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.samuraimuseum.jp\/shop\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/37766"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.samuraimuseum.jp\/shop\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=37755"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"product_brand","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.samuraimuseum.jp\/shop\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/product_brand?post=37755"},{"taxonomy":"product_cat","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.samuraimuseum.jp\/shop\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/product_cat?post=37755"},{"taxonomy":"product_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.samuraimuseum.jp\/shop\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/product_tag?post=37755"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}