{"id":75804,"date":"2025-10-06T11:04:51","date_gmt":"2025-10-06T02:04:51","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.samuraimuseum.jp\/shop\/?post_type=product&p=75804"},"modified":"2026-03-28T18:21:33","modified_gmt":"2026-03-28T09:21:33","slug":"antique-mid-edo-period-samurai-armor-tokubetsu-kicho-shiryo-certificate-a-52","status":"publish","type":"product","link":"https:\/\/www.samuraimuseum.jp\/shop\/product\/antique-mid-edo-period-samurai-armor-tokubetsu-kicho-shiryo-certificate-a-52\/","title":{"rendered":"Antique Mid Edo Period Samurai Armor Tokubetsu Kicho Shiryo<\/span><\/strong> Certificate (A-52)"},"content":{"rendered":"

Antique Edo Period Nimai Do Samurai Armor\u00a0 with Tokubetsu Kicho<\/span> Shiryo Certificate (A-52)<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

Period: Mid<\/strong> Edo Period (1688-1800)<\/strong>
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appraised by The Association for the Research and Preservation of Japanese Helmets and Armor on September 14th 2025.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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Kabuto (helmet)<\/strong><\/span>
\n\u25a0Helmet bowl: Suji Kabuto\u3000<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0The kabuto (helmet) served as essential head protection for the samurai. While early helmets were designed primarily for practical use, over time they came to express the warrior\u2019s dignity, individuality, and even religious beliefs. From the late Muromachi period to the Edo period, more decorative helmets known as kawari kabuto (unusual or exotic helmets) appeared, often adorned with materials such as animal fur, seashells, plants, or paper.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0Among the more practical designs, the suji kabuto (ridged helmet) became highly valued. Its bowl was constructed with raised ridges designed to deflect the strikes of swords, reducing their impact. This innovation also contributed to weight reduction, meeting the demands of changing battle tactics in the 14th\u201316th centuries. Production of suji kabuto flourished during the Muromachi period.\u00a0\u00a0This example is a Rokuj\u016byonken Suji Kabuto (Sixty-Four Plate Suji Kabuto), made by riveting together 64 individual iron plates to form the helmet bowl, with radiating ridges that combine both beauty and functionality. The use of such a high number of plates created a smoother, more rounded silhouette, showcasing the advanced craftsmanship of armorers of the time.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0Furthermore, at the very top of the helmet bowl is the tehen-no-ana (\u5929\u8fba\u306e\u7a74, \u201ctop opening\u201d), which in this piece is adorned with an intricate design: a chrysanthemum flower at the center surrounded by an arabesque (karakusa) pattern. In Japanese culture, the chrysanthemum is a symbol of nobility and longevity, famously associated with the Imperial family. The arabesque motif, depicting endlessly extending vines, represents vitality, prosperity, and the flourishing of descendants.\u00a0Originally, the tehen-no-ana was a functional opening through which the warrior\u2019s topknot (mage) would protrude. However, as it provided an easy target for enemy attacks, this practice gradually disappeared around the Kamakura period (1185\u20131333). Thereafter, the opening lost its practical use and instead became a space for elaborate decoration, as seen in this example.<\/span><\/p>\n

Inside the helmet, there is an inscription, saying that Myochin Nobuie (\u660e\u73cd\u4fe1\u5bb6). Myochin is the name of a famous armor-making school that has been continuing for generations since the Heian period. Mochin school originally was founded in Kyoto area. And, members of this school moved to other parts of Japan, including Jyoshu (Gunma), Soshu (Kanagawa), Echizen (Fukui), Kaga (Ishikawa). Since he trained under this prestigious school, Nobuie’s craftsmanship was highly appreciated during the mid Edo period.<\/p>\n

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\u25a0Shikoro (side neck guard):<\/span>
\n\u00a0Black lacquered plates laced with navy blue threads.<\/span><\/p>\n

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\u25a0Fukikaeshi (side neck guard)<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0The fukikaeshi are the side flaps attached to both ends of a samurai helmet (kabuto). They served a defensive function by protecting the face from sword strikes, while also providing space for decorative designs that indicated a warrior\u2019s status and affiliation. <\/span>The fukikaeshi of this helmet bear the Aoi-mon (\u8475\u7d0b, hollyhock crest), one of the most iconic family crests in Japan. It is particularly famous as the emblem of the Tokugawa shogunate, which ruled Japan during the Edo period (1603\u20131868). The most common form is the Mitsuba Aoi (\u4e09\u3064\u8449\u8475, triple hollyhock), depicting three leaves joined at the base. The crest symbolizes authority, prosperity, and longevity.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0 The Aoi-mon was also used by prominent Shinto shrines such as the Kamo Shrines in Kyoto (Kamigamo and Shimogamo). For samurai, wearing this crest on armor signified not only military power but also divine protection and legitimacy.<\/span><\/p>\n

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*Please keep in mind that the right side of the Fukikaeshi is damaged due to its aging. Please check the photo carefully before placing an order.\u00a0<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n

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\u25a0Menpo (face guard): Ress\u0113men (\u70c8\u52e2\u9762)<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0This type of menp\u014d (face guard) is called a ress\u0113men (\u70c8\u52e2\u9762). The name literally means \u201cfierce expression mask.\u201d As the term suggests, it was crafted to give the wearer a fearsome look on the battlefield. Such masks not only provided protection for the face but also served a psychological purpose\u2014intimidating opponents and expressing the warrior\u2019s spirit.
\n<\/span>
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\u25a0 Maedate (Front decoration): Tsuru(\u9db4, crane), Kuwagata (\u936c\u5f62\uff09<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0The kuwagata is attached to this kabuto as a type of maedatemono (\u524d\u7acb\u7269, front decoration) to dignify and enhance its appearance. The shape of this kuwagata features bifurcated tips, crafted from a single metal plate, giving it a simple yet commanding presence. Although there are minor scratches and small damages, they remain as traces of its long history and can be appreciated as part of its antique texture.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0At the very center of the kuwagata, three chrysanthemum crests (kiku-mon) are applied, a motif that has long symbolized nobility and longevity in Japanese culture. Furthermore, at the tips of each end, the inome (\u732a\u306e\u76ee, boar\u2019s eye) pattern is engraved. This design, resembling a heart shape, has been used since ancient times as a charm believed to ward off evil spirits and fire, while also inviting good fortune.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0The maedatemono is attached to this kabuto (helmet). The motif of this maetate is estimated to be a crane (\u9db4, tsuru), a bird that holds deep symbolic meaning in Japanese culture. In Japan, cranes are regarded as auspicious creatures symbolizing longevity, good fortune, marital harmony, and peace. They are often referred to as \u201cbirds of happiness\u201d and are frequently depicted in art, textiles, and family emblems.\u00a0For the samurai, wearing a crane motif on a helmet decoration was not only ornamental but also a declaration of their hopes for a long life, prosperity, and the well-being of their clan. The former owner of this armor may have expressed these wishes and ideals by displaying the crane prominently on his kabuto.<\/span><\/p>\n

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

\u25a0 D\u014d (cuirass): Okegawa Nimai D\u014d (\u6876\u5ddd\u4e8c\u679a\u80f4)<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0The Nimai D\u014d (\u4e8c\u679a\u80f4) is a type of cuirass used in T\u014dsei Gusoku (\u5f53\u4e16\u5177\u8db3, \u201cmodern armor\u201d developed during the Sengoku period). The term Nimai (\u4e8c\u679a) means \u201ctwo plates,\u201d while D\u014d (\u80f4) refers to the torso; hence, this cuirass is named for its two-piece construction. Unlike earlier armors made primarily from numerous small lamellar plates (kozane, \u5c0f\u672d), this style uses larger iron plates to provide stronger and more practical protection.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0The name Okegawa (\u6876\u5074) derives from its resemblance to the staves of a wooden tub (oke), with gawa meaning \u201cside.\u201d The cuirass is divided into two parts joined by a hinge, usually placed on the left side, while the right side could be secured with cords or clasps. This particular example is made of black-lacquered iron plates, laced together with navy-blue silk cord.<\/span><\/p>\n

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\u25a0Kusazuri (skirt of plates attached to the cuirass):<\/span>
\n\u00a0 Lacquered iron Kusazuri laced with navy blue threads.\u00a0<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n

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Small parts<\/span><\/strong>
\n\u25a0Kote (armored sleeves):<\/span>
\nIntricately crafted with iron chain mail interwoven with silk. <\/span>On the middle section of the back of the hand, a cherry blossom crest (sakura mon) is prominently featured. The finger-covering plates bear diamond-shaped (hishi) patterns, along with what appears to be a design associated with the Takeda family crest (\u6b66\u7530\u83f1, Takeda-bishi), a motif strongly connected to the famous Takeda clan of the Sengoku period.<\/span><\/p>\n

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\u25a0Haidate (thigh protection):
\nThe haidate is a type of thigh guard, consisting of cloth backing reinforced with chain mail and iron plates.<\/span><\/p>\n

*Please keep in mind that the inro plates on the Haidate is partially damaged while you can display it without any issues.<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n

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\u25a0Suneate (shin guard):<\/span><\/p>\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>This Suneate is a type called Kusari sunete (chain armor shin guard). It features chains attached to fabric, with minimal gaps between the metal links.\u00a0<\/span><\/span>
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\u25a0Kacchu Hitsu (armor box)<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span>
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Certification<\/span><\/strong>: Tokubetsu Kicho Shiryo Certificate<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0On September 14th 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\u00a0<\/span> ranked as the third highest of five rankings.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n

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An English translation of the certificate is available on request. We won\u2019t charge any additional fee.<\/em><\/strong><\/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\u00a0Free 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\u00a0 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:<\/strong> <\/span>
\nTokubetsu Kicho Shiryo Certificate, Samurai Armor,\u00a0 Storage Box, Display Stand, 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
50 cm<\/span><\/td>\n43 cm<\/span><\/td>\n143 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

More photos\uff06 videos available on request. Please feel free to contact us.\u00a0<\/strong><\/em><\/span><\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"featured_media":76205,"template":"","meta":[],"product_brand":[],"product_cat":[21,17],"product_tag":[],"class_list":{"0":"post-75804","1":"product","2":"type-product","3":"status-publish","4":"has-post-thumbnail","6":"product_cat-real-armor","7":"product_cat-armor","9":"first","10":"instock","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\/75804","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\/76205"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.samuraimuseum.jp\/shop\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=75804"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"product_brand","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.samuraimuseum.jp\/shop\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/product_brand?post=75804"},{"taxonomy":"product_cat","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.samuraimuseum.jp\/shop\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/product_cat?post=75804"},{"taxonomy":"product_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.samuraimuseum.jp\/shop\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/product_tag?post=75804"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}