Armour - Japan

【Important notes】

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【Product details】

This Meiji-Showa period samurai armour display was originally sold by a doll shop in Osaka. Inside the lid of the wooden armour chest is the maker’s label, listing the shop name and address, including references to 'Hachiman and Kichibee (八幡や吉兵衛)' (Osaka, Mido-suji Honmachi). The shop is believed to have operated from the late Edo period into the early Showa era, making this a valuable piece with identifiable provenance.

This type of armour set was made for the traditional Boys’ Day Festival (now celebrated as Children’s Day on 5 May). Families displayed miniature armour to symbolise strength, protection and the hope that boys would grow up healthy and courageous. The display reflects admiration for samurai virtues and served as an important seasonal tradition.

The design of this set includes iron only on the front plates of the thigh guards, while the rest is made from lacquered thick paper, fabric and cords. It comes with a wooden stand for mounting.

The set shows ageing consistent with a Meiji-period festival piece. There is wear, lacquer loss and areas of discolouration. The wooden chest has scuffs, visible cracks and flaking to the surface from age-related deterioration. Despite this, the set has an attractive, authentic antique character. Please refer to the photos for details.

Dimensions of wooden box: approx. H 40 cm W 33.5 cm D 33.5 cm
Height on display: approx. 80 cm

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・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!