A Suit of Edo Period Japanese Samurai Armor

A suit of Japanese samurai armor of the Edo period (1603-1868) comprised of the helmet; the chin and throat guard; fabric shoulder drape with attached layered armor plates; upper arm protectors of fabric and lacquered wood; steel front chest plate and back plate with layered waist protection plates; and leg protective coverings of fabric and layered plates. The components of the suit show the expected effects of the passage of more than 250 years. Some of the attachment strings or cords are broken or missing. The fabric shows wear, with tears or holes. The lacquer on wooden protective plates or other surfaces is chipped in spots. Despite these indications of its use and age, the suit of samurai armor remains quite impressive. This example has a large gilt block on the front of the chest plate as a mons, or family crest, and the helmet is adorned with a dramatic set of antlers in the front. The suit of armor comes with its original carrying trunk. The trunk is made of lacquered wood with iron fittings and measures approximately 14 inches wide by 22 inches long by 14 inches deep. Overall this is a very compelling set of armor.