Kabuto - Japan

02
days
16
hours
26
minutes
24
seconds
Current bid
€ 22
No reserve price
Julien Gauthier
Expert
Selected by Julien Gauthier

With almost a decade of experience bridging science, museum curation, and traditional blacksmithing, Julien has developed a unique expertise in historical arms, armour, and African art.

Estimate  € 180 - € 220
7 other people are watching this object
PLBidder 5382
€22

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An antique Japanese hanbō samurai half mask with a multi‑plate iron throat guard, finished in black exterior lacquer and vermilion interior, approx. 25 cm high, 21 cm wide, 9.5 cm deep, weighing about 480 g, with age‑related wear and a missing nose piece.

AI-assisted summary

Description from the seller

【Important notes】

・International buyers are responsible for any import duties, taxes, and charges not included in the item price or shipping cost. Please note that VAT paid to Catawiki is separate from and does not cover import duties or customs charges in your country. You may still be required to pay additional fees upon delivery, as determined by your local customs authorities.
・Shipping Details: Most items are shipped via Japan Post EMS (airmail). If you are in a hurry, we can arrange shipping via DHL or FedEx upon request for an additional fee.
・Damage and Issues: If you receive a damaged item, please contact us immediately. The damage must be reported to your local post office within 7 days of delivery, and promptly to us and Catawiki support.

【Product details】

An antique hanbō (半頬) — a type of samurai half mask designed to protect the lower part of the face with multi-plate throat guard (Tare).

The mask is made of iron, finished with black lacquer on the exterior and vermilion lacquer on the interior, a traditional treatment commonly used in samurai armor. The expressive contours of the mask were designed not only for protection but also to enhance the intimidating appearance of the warrior on the battlefield.

The attached throat guard is constructed from iron plates, laced together with silk cords, allowing flexibility while protecting the neck and upper chest area. The layered construction provided mobility without sacrificing defensive capability.

Such masks were worn together with a kabuto helmet and served both practical and symbolic roles in samurai armor. The distinctive facial expression was intended to convey strength and authority while also helping secure the helmet cords.

Fair to good antique condition. There are signs of age including surface wear, some rust, stains, several small lacquer chips, and minor lacquer cracks. Some sections of the silk lacing are broken or worn. It appears that a nose piece was originally attached, as there are attachment points at the temples, but it is currently missing. Please refer to the photos for details.

Overall Dimensions: approx. H 25 cm W 21 cm D 9.5 cm

・Please make sure to review all the provided information and images before placing your bid.
・We make every effort to accurately represent the product's colors and textures in our photos. However, due to differences in monitors and device displays, as well as photographic conditions, slight color variations between the photos and the actual product may occur. We ask for your understanding in advance.

Thank you for your interest, and happy bidding!

Seller's Story

Welcome to Yorozuya Arinsu!                                                             We are an antique shop based on the outskirts of Tokyo, originally focusing on the Japanese market but proudly expanding to serve international customers. In August 2023, we became a pro seller on Catawiki, and since then, we’ve enjoyed sharing our passion for Japanese art and antiques with collectors worldwide.                                           Our collection includes a diverse range of items, from genuine antiques to contemporary art pieces. We take pride in offering unique, high-quality objects that reflect Japan’s rich cultural heritage as well as modern creativity. If there’s something specific you’re looking for, feel free to reach out to us on Instagram: 【yorozuya_arinsu】                                                          Thank you for visiting our shop, and we look forward to helping you find your next special piece!                                   

【Important notes】

・International buyers are responsible for any import duties, taxes, and charges not included in the item price or shipping cost. Please note that VAT paid to Catawiki is separate from and does not cover import duties or customs charges in your country. You may still be required to pay additional fees upon delivery, as determined by your local customs authorities.
・Shipping Details: Most items are shipped via Japan Post EMS (airmail). If you are in a hurry, we can arrange shipping via DHL or FedEx upon request for an additional fee.
・Damage and Issues: If you receive a damaged item, please contact us immediately. The damage must be reported to your local post office within 7 days of delivery, and promptly to us and Catawiki support.

【Product details】

An antique hanbō (半頬) — a type of samurai half mask designed to protect the lower part of the face with multi-plate throat guard (Tare).

The mask is made of iron, finished with black lacquer on the exterior and vermilion lacquer on the interior, a traditional treatment commonly used in samurai armor. The expressive contours of the mask were designed not only for protection but also to enhance the intimidating appearance of the warrior on the battlefield.

The attached throat guard is constructed from iron plates, laced together with silk cords, allowing flexibility while protecting the neck and upper chest area. The layered construction provided mobility without sacrificing defensive capability.

Such masks were worn together with a kabuto helmet and served both practical and symbolic roles in samurai armor. The distinctive facial expression was intended to convey strength and authority while also helping secure the helmet cords.

Fair to good antique condition. There are signs of age including surface wear, some rust, stains, several small lacquer chips, and minor lacquer cracks. Some sections of the silk lacing are broken or worn. It appears that a nose piece was originally attached, as there are attachment points at the temples, but it is currently missing. Please refer to the photos for details.

Overall Dimensions: approx. H 25 cm W 21 cm D 9.5 cm

・Please make sure to review all the provided information and images before placing your bid.
・We make every effort to accurately represent the product's colors and textures in our photos. However, due to differences in monitors and device displays, as well as photographic conditions, slight color variations between the photos and the actual product may occur. We ask for your understanding in advance.

Thank you for your interest, and happy bidding!

Seller's Story

Welcome to Yorozuya Arinsu!                                                             We are an antique shop based on the outskirts of Tokyo, originally focusing on the Japanese market but proudly expanding to serve international customers. In August 2023, we became a pro seller on Catawiki, and since then, we’ve enjoyed sharing our passion for Japanese art and antiques with collectors worldwide.                                           Our collection includes a diverse range of items, from genuine antiques to contemporary art pieces. We take pride in offering unique, high-quality objects that reflect Japan’s rich cultural heritage as well as modern creativity. If there’s something specific you’re looking for, feel free to reach out to us on Instagram: 【yorozuya_arinsu】                                                          Thank you for visiting our shop, and we look forward to helping you find your next special piece!                                   

Details

Material
Various - Antique Hanbo (Samurai Half Mask) with Throat Guard
Country of origin
Japan
Condition
Fair condition, see description
Height
25 cm
Width
21 cm
Weight
480 g
JapanVerified
4831
Objects sold
99.66%
protop

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