{"id":68100,"date":"2025-05-13T11:07:19","date_gmt":"2025-05-13T02:07:19","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.samuraimuseum.jp\/shop\/?post_type=product&p=68100"},"modified":"2025-08-14T17:19:12","modified_gmt":"2025-08-14T08:19:12","slug":"antique-mid-edo-period-samurai-armor-tokubetsu-kicho-shiryo-certificate-a-46","status":"publish","type":"product","link":"https:\/\/www.samuraimuseum.jp\/shop\/product\/antique-mid-edo-period-samurai-armor-tokubetsu-kicho-shiryo-certificate-a-46\/","title":{"rendered":"Antique Mid Edo Period Samurai Armor Tokubetsu Kicho Shiryo<\/span><\/strong> Certificate (A-46)"},"content":{"rendered":"

Antique Mid Edo Period Samurai Armor<\/span>\u00a0Tokubetsu Kicho Shiryo<\/span> Certificate (A-46)<\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

Period: Mid\u00a0Edo Period<\/strong>
\nappraised by The Association for the Research and Preservation of Japanese Helmets and Armor on May 11th. We are expecting to receive its Tokubetsu Kicho Shiryo certificate in July-August.<\/span><\/p>\n

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Kabuto (helmet)<\/strong><\/span>
\n\u25a0Helmet bowl: Suji Kabuto\u3000<\/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 horseback fight style to battle with the Katana 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 25 stripes in this Kabuto, meaning 25 small iron plates are connected. It is called Sanju Ni Ken Suji Kabuto (\u4e09\u5341\u4e8c\u9593\u7b4b\u515c). Sanju Ni means 32 in Japanese.<\/span><\/p>\n

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

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\u25a0Mabisashi (brim of the helmet):<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0The Japanese apricot blossom pattern is designed on this Mabisashi. Japanese apricot blossoms begin to bloom in winter that snow still covers its tree so that people thought this flower tells the arrival of spring. Same as cherry blossom, it has been appreciated for a long time in Japan. People enjoy its adorable petal shape and scent, gracefully branched tree, and compose many poems. As it comes out in the cold season, it symbolizes the power of perseverance and vitality.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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\u25a0Shikoro (side neck guard):<\/span>
\n\u00a0Gold lacquered plates laced with green and navy blue threads.<\/span><\/p>\n

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\u25a0Fukikaeshi (side neck guard)<\/span>
\n\u00a0The Fukikaeshi (\u5439\u304d\u8fd4\u3057) is both ends of a Kabuto. It protects the face from swords. On both sides of the Fukikaeshi, there are several silver orbaments, which appear to be inspired by chrysanthemum motifs.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0A long time ago, the chrysanthemum was used as a medicine to obtain a long life in China, and it was brought to Japan with this thought in the Nara period (648-781). The chrysanthemum is one of the flowers that symbolize fall, and people have appreciated it very much since ancient times. As its petals form radially, the chrysanthemum has been likened to the sun. That is why this flower pattern is treated as the symbol of perpetual youth and longevity or good health. \u201cKiku no Gomon (\u83ca\u306e\u5fa1\u7d0b)\u201d is a kind of chrysanthemum pattern, and it has been used as the crest of the Emperor and the royal family in Japan, so it is well-known as a noble pattern.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0From the Kamakura (1185-1333) period to the Warring States period (1467-1615), the chrysanthemum crest was given as a reward from the Emperor back then to the warlords who made significant contributions. For example, Ashikaga Takauji (1305-1358), who became the first Shogun of the Muromachi Shogunate, cooperated with Emperor Go-Daigo (\u5f8c\u918d\u9190\u5929\u7687, 1288-1339) to dissolve the Kamakura Shogunate. And Takauji was given a chrysanthemum crest.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0In addition, Toyotomi Hideyoshi (1537-1598) was also given a chrysanthemum crest by Emperor Goyouzei. A theory says Hideyoshi was delighted and used this motif for furniture. At that time, the Emperor was regarded as God. Therefore, it was an irreplaceable honor for Samurais to receive the family crest from the Emperor. This is how the chrysanthemum pattern has a deep connection with Samurai culture.<\/span><\/p>\n

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\u25a0Menpo (face guard): Ressei Menpo<\/span>
\n\u00a0This type of Menpo is called the Ressei Menpo (\u70c8\u52e2\u9762\u982c). It represents the angry face to intimidate enemies. There are many types of Menpo, depending on their shape or appearance. 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. Long beards are attached to this Menpo. Thanks to this effect, even a young soldier would have been able to produce the majestic appearance of a middle-aged Samurai.<\/span><\/p>\n

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\u25a0Maedate (Front decoration): Sankoken\u00a0<\/span>
\n\u00a0The Maedatemono (\u524d\u7acb\u7269, front decoration) is attached to this Kabuto. We estimate that the motif of this Kabuto is sankoken (\u4e09\u9237\u5263, three-pronged vajra). The sankoken is a ritual implement used in Buddhism, particularly Esoteric Buddhism (Mikky\u014d). It consists of a straight central prong flanked by two curved prongs, forming a three-pronged shape.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0The sankoken symbolizes the power of the Buddha, representing the ability to cut through worldly desires, dispel evil, and lead one toward enlightenment. Since ancient times, it has been depicted as a sacred weapon held by Buddhist guardian deities and wrathful kings (\u660e\u738b, My\u014d-\u014d), and has been regarded as a spiritual object of great power.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0The incorporation of such a religious symbol into a samurai\u2019s sword fittings was not merely decorative\u2014it served as a spiritual protection and an expression of the owner\u2019s faith or inner strength. For warriors heading into battle, carrying a motif like the sankoken would have provided emotional and spiritual support, helping them maintain a calm mind and unwavering spirit.<\/span><\/p>\n

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Armor<\/span><\/strong><\/p>\n

\u25a0Do (cuirass): Nimai Do<\/p>\n

\u00a0Nimai Do is a kind of cuirass for Tousei Gusoku (\u5f53\u4e16\u5177\u8db3, developed armor style). Nimai Do (\u4e8c\u679a\u80f4) was named after the fact that Nimai (\u4e8c\u679a) means two plates, and Do (\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><\/p>\n

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\u25a0Kusazuri (skirt of plates attached to the cuirass):<\/span>
\n\u00a0Lacquered iron Kusazuri laced with green (\u840c\u9ec4, moegi). The cords for the Odoshi (\u7e05, a technique for armor tying boards together with cords such as leather or thread) are relatively in good condition, so each plate is tied without coming off.\u3000<\/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. Chain mail and iron plates are attached to its cloth.
\n<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n

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\u25a0Suneate (shin guard):<\/span>
\n\u00a0 \"\"<\/span><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n

Certification<\/span><\/strong>: Tokubetsu Kicho Shiryo Certificate<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0On May 11th 2025, 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. This association is also known as Nihon Katchu Bugu Kenkyu Hozonkai<\/span><\/a> (\u65e5\u672c\u7532\u5191\u6b66\u5177\u7814\u7a76\u4fdd\u5b58\u4f1a).\u00a0 Tokubestu Kicho Shiryo (\u7279\u5225\u8cb4\u91cd\u8cc7\u6599) means special rare article. It is ranked as the third highest of five rankings.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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

\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 Japaneseculture 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

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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
40 cm<\/span><\/td>\n59 cm<\/span><\/td>\n142 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":68247,"template":"","meta":[],"product_brand":[],"product_cat":[21,17],"product_tag":[],"class_list":{"0":"post-68100","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\/68100","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\/68247"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.samuraimuseum.jp\/shop\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=68100"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"product_brand","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.samuraimuseum.jp\/shop\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/product_brand?post=68100"},{"taxonomy":"product_cat","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.samuraimuseum.jp\/shop\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/product_cat?post=68100"},{"taxonomy":"product_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.samuraimuseum.jp\/shop\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/product_tag?post=68100"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}