This is a superb and rare red early Edo. 江戸時代初期 17th century 初期 Saddle- Kura 鞍 , with heavy iron battle Abumi 鐙 . . Interior of the saddle with inscription dated . . With NKBKHK documents of authentification dating the saddle in the early Edo period 1600 -1680 . 特別貴重資料 Tokubetsu Kichō Shiryō, specialy precious piece . . Solid hardwood kura base with traditional construction tenon and mortese . . Natural patina visible, authentic grain and aging consistent with early 17th century craftsmanship. . The wood on the saddle is covered xith original leather lacquered with red urushi . . Color aged from bright cinnabar red to deep burgundy/wine red over more 400 years. . Patina, craking and wear patterns are natural and untouched. . After more 400 years, ink fading and wood age make full deciphering difficult. But in the early years of the 17th century. . Think about the Japan History ,think about the Osaka battle ,feel the " Lasts" battles of the Samurai and the tormented period . . A pair of abumi added later included, of hand-forged iron abumi. Weight 5,1 kg the pair. . Massive thick iron, high bridge weight and form consistent with Edo period battlefields abumi designed for armored samurai. . Original red lacquered leather maching saddle color and patina. . Documentation NKBKHK included classifying the kura saddle as early Edo period. . Museum ensemble from the Early Edo ,a Samurai kura-saddle accompanied by matching heavy abumi and papers from the NKBKHK included. . A complete set for serious collector .