Cheek piece - Japan (No reserve price)
03
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€ 2
No reserve price
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Selected by Julien Gauthier
A decade of experience in historical arms, armour, and African art.
Estimate € 150 - € 200
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Japanese antique iron menpō facial armour with black lacquer, dating to 1920–1930, measuring 17 cm wide, 15 cm high, 21 cm deep, weighing about 513 g, in good condition, with the original cord intact at the top.
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Description from the seller
Product Description
Japanese Antique Armor: *Menpō* (Facial Armor) — Black Lacquered Warrior Mask
This is a traditional *menpō* (facial armor) of the type used with Japanese samurai armor.
History and Background
The *menpō* is a component of the armor worn by Japanese samurai from the Sengoku period through the Edo period. It served to protect the face—covering the nose, chin, and cheeks—while also enhancing the imposing presence of the armor as a whole.
Particularly during the Edo period, *menpō* evolved beyond mere practical combat gear into works of art that showcased the craftsmanship and aesthetic sensibilities of armor makers. Iron *menpō* finished with black lacquer represent one of the most iconic styles; indeed, iron and lacquered *menpō* from the 17th to 19th centuries are held in the collections of museums overseas.
These masks often featured a section known as the *tare* (throat guard) attached to the lower part; this protected the neck and connected the mask to the cuirass and shoulder guards of the armor.
Records of Japanese cultural artifacts confirm that Edo-period armor makers poured great technical skill into the sculpting and lacquering of *menpō*. The *sō-menpō* (full-face mask), which covers the entire face, is a notable type; some were created specifically to demonstrate the artisan's mastery.
While the *menpō* served to protect the lower face and head, it also played a crucial role in lending a dignified, commanding air to the fully armored samurai.
This piece is characterized by a deep, black lacquered finish and a bold, three-dimensional facial sculpt. The lower section features a structure of overlapping protective plates, giving it a truly distinctive presence.
The original cord, likely used to attach the mask to the rest of the armor, remains intact at the top. Dimensions
Width: approx. 17 cm
Height: approx. 15 cm
Depth: approx. 21 cm
Weight: approx. 513 g
Condition: As this is an old item, there are significant signs of wear, including scratches, scuffs, peeling lacquer, discoloration, and dirt. These issues are clearly visible in the photos and have been honestly described in the listing.
Product Description
Japanese Antique Armor: *Menpō* (Facial Armor) — Black Lacquered Warrior Mask
This is a traditional *menpō* (facial armor) of the type used with Japanese samurai armor.
History and Background
The *menpō* is a component of the armor worn by Japanese samurai from the Sengoku period through the Edo period. It served to protect the face—covering the nose, chin, and cheeks—while also enhancing the imposing presence of the armor as a whole.
Particularly during the Edo period, *menpō* evolved beyond mere practical combat gear into works of art that showcased the craftsmanship and aesthetic sensibilities of armor makers. Iron *menpō* finished with black lacquer represent one of the most iconic styles; indeed, iron and lacquered *menpō* from the 17th to 19th centuries are held in the collections of museums overseas.
These masks often featured a section known as the *tare* (throat guard) attached to the lower part; this protected the neck and connected the mask to the cuirass and shoulder guards of the armor.
Records of Japanese cultural artifacts confirm that Edo-period armor makers poured great technical skill into the sculpting and lacquering of *menpō*. The *sō-menpō* (full-face mask), which covers the entire face, is a notable type; some were created specifically to demonstrate the artisan's mastery.
While the *menpō* served to protect the lower face and head, it also played a crucial role in lending a dignified, commanding air to the fully armored samurai.
This piece is characterized by a deep, black lacquered finish and a bold, three-dimensional facial sculpt. The lower section features a structure of overlapping protective plates, giving it a truly distinctive presence.
The original cord, likely used to attach the mask to the rest of the armor, remains intact at the top. Dimensions
Width: approx. 17 cm
Height: approx. 15 cm
Depth: approx. 21 cm
Weight: approx. 513 g
Condition: As this is an old item, there are significant signs of wear, including scratches, scuffs, peeling lacquer, discoloration, and dirt. These issues are clearly visible in the photos and have been honestly described in the listing.
Details
Era
1900-2000
Country of origin
Japan
Condition
Good
Height
15 cm
Width
17 cm
Depth
21 cm
Estimated period
1920-1930
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