Armour (1) - Japan - 1980-1990

## Short description of the item and its origin

An impressive Japanese decorative reproduction of the famous **Kiku Ichimonji O-Yoroi (Great Armour)**, inspired by the National Treasure preserved at Kushibiki Hachimangu Shrine in Aomori, Japan.

This piece is presented in a traditional Japanese display-board format, combining three-dimensional armour components with textile elements mounted on a decorative backing. This style of armour display became popular in Japan during the Showa period and continued into modern times, particularly for interior decoration and traditional seasonal displays.

The composition features a richly decorated kabuto (helmet) with a prominent gilt kuwagata crest. The side flaps (fukigaeshi) are adorned with finely detailed chrysanthemum motifs. A striking menpo (facial armour mask) completes the imposing samurai appearance.

The chest area features decorative leather-style panels with lion and peony motifs, while the large shoulder guards (o-sode) display elaborate chrysanthemum-shaped gilt ornaments. Below them, the body and skirt sections are decorated with layers of traditional red-laced armour plates, carefully arranged to recreate the distinctive appearance of classical O-Yoroi armour.

Additional decorative elements include bamboo-fence and chrysanthemum motifs, together with hanging cords finished with purple and white tassels. The display is accompanied by a wooden inscription plaque bearing the wording indicating a reproduction of the National Treasure Red-Laced Armour, along with a gold-tone metal seal inscribed with the characters believed to read “松庵”.

Please note that this is a decorative reproduction inspired by the National Treasure Kiku Ichimonji armour, not the original historical armour.

## Collector’s Value & Benefits

This decorative piece brings together the visual language of traditional Japanese samurai armour and the craftsmanship of Japanese ornamental arts.

Its production style combines sculptural metal and lacquer-like decorative components with textile elements and traditional-style lacing. The details evoke several established Japanese craft techniques, including metal engraving, lacquer decoration, gilt ornamentation and traditional odoshi (armour lacing).

The elaborate helmet crest, chrysanthemum fittings, lion and peony chest decoration, and vivid red lacing give the display a strong visual presence. Its distinctive presentation makes it suitable for collectors of Japanese samurai culture, traditional armour, Japanese decorative arts and historical reproductions.

Originally associated with Japanese seasonal displays, May Festival decorations and interior presentation, works of this type are also attractive as distinctive decorative objects for a study, collection room or Japanese-inspired interior.

## Dimensions (in cm)

Width: 83 cm
Depth: 130 cm
Height: 46 cm

## Weight (in grams)

6,290 g



## Shipping method

**Shipping & International Duties:**

- Based on our inventory storage locations, we ship our items from either Japan or Europe to destinations worldwide.
- We pack all items with extreme care to ensure safe transit. Due to the size and structure of this decorative armour display, appropriate protective packaging will be used.
- **DDP (Delivered Duty Paid) Shipping included:** To provide you with a smoother shopping experience and premium logistics service, all import duties, taxes (VAT), and customs clearance handling fees incurred in your destination country will be fully covered and paid by us. You will not have to pay any additional customs fees upon delivery.
**Important Shipping Notice – Display Frame Not Included**

Due to the large dimensions of this item and the practical requirements of international shipping, the external display frame will not be included in the shipment.

The armour display itself, including its decorative components and backing board, will be carefully packed and shipped. The outer frame is excluded to reduce the risk of damage during international transportation.

Please note that the dimensions provided refer to the complete display, including the external frame. The item will be shipped without the external frame.

Thank you for your understanding.
- Thank you very much for your understanding and cooperation.