Item Description A pair of Ashigaru Do (foot soldier armor back plates) featuring mysterious gold-colored characters prominently displayed on black surfaces. These back plates represent an important piece of Japanese military history from the feudal era. Each do (cuirass back plate) is constructed in the traditional manner with horizontal lacing visible at the bottom edge, including both blue and decorative braided cord work. The pieces retain their original shoulder straps with metal fittings, showing the functional design that allowed samurai retainers to wear these protective pieces in battle. The front surfaces bear mysterious gold characters that remain undeciphered - possibly Sanskrit Bonji characters used as protective Buddhist talismans, or clan identification marks. Both plates display identical characters, suggesting they belonged to the same military unit. The black finish shows natural aging with areas of wear, surface scratches, and patina formation, all of which authenticate their historical provenance and battlefield use. These back plates would have been part of the lighter armor worn by ashigaru (foot soldiers) serving feudal lords during the late Edo period (1603-1868). The presence of these enigmatic characters adds to the historical intrigue, possibly representing spiritual protection through Buddhist symbolism or identification with a specific military unit or clan. The lower lacing sections (kusazuri) show both the original construction technique and the practical design that allowed for mobility while providing protection. This is a rare opportunity to acquire authentic Edo period military equipment with mysterious symbolic markings, perfect for collectors of Japanese arms and armor, historians, or museums specializing in feudal Japanese warfare. Size Height: 70 cm (each piece) Width: 35 cm (each piece) Depth: 14 cm (each piece) Weight 3,950 g (3.95 kg for both pieces combined) Condition The armor shows authentic age-related wear consistent with a potential Edo period artifacts, including surface scratches, finish deterioration, and patina formation. The structural integrity remains sound with original lacing and metal fittings intact. NOITICE: The lot will be carefully packaged and sent by Japan Post, DHL or FedEx depend on the situation. It takes about 3 weeks to receive normally. Import duties, taxes, and charges are not included in the item price or shipping cost. These charges are the buyer's responsibility. Sometimes Customes or delivery company in your country contact you for Customs clearance via phone or email. Please make sure that you could answer the phone. If you don't, the parcel will return to me and it cost more double shipping fee for reshipping. I appreciate your cooperation.