Mask - Wrought iron - Edo Period (1600-1868)

This Edo-period Tetsu Sabiji Ressei Menpo is a striking piece, designed with a dignified, noble appearance indicative of high-ranking samurai. Crafted from iron with a rust-brown patina, it embodies the traditional aesthetics and formidable quality of late-Edo period craftsmanship. The menpo, or face armor, was worn by samurai to shield the face in battle and to instill a sense of fear in opponents. This menpo includes intricate detailing, showcasing the artisan’s attention to both form and function. Its Ressei design, known for an intense expression, combines strength and artistry with sharp, expressive features. The iron is deliberately finished in a textured rust-brown (sabiji) style, a classic treatment that enhances both the armor’s durability and its dignified look. This menpo comes with a paper certificate of authenticity, attesting to its historical provenance and craftsmanship. Its unique features and noble aesthetic make it not only a piece of functional armor but also an important collectible that captures the elegance and spirit of the samurai warrior tradition.
The paper is from the Japanese Armor Society, also known as NKBKHK.
The certificate achieved is Hozon-Shiryo.