盔甲 (3) - 日本 - 1700-1750 江戶時代中期

Signed Myochin School Iron Suji-Bachi Kabuto and Menpō
Edo Period, 18th Century

A powerful and highly atmospheric Japanese samurai suji-bachi kabuto with matching iron menpō and large gilt maedate, signed inside the bowl:

明珍宗久
(Myochin Munehisa) (Attribution is provided for reference only and the signature remains subject to authentication)

The signature attributes the helmet to the celebrated Myochin school, one of the most important and respected lineages of Japanese armour makers. The Myochin armourers were renowned from the Muromachi period onward for their exceptional iron forging techniques and for producing helmets of superior strength, functionality, and aesthetic refinement. Their work was highly prized by samurai families and daimyō throughout Japan, and the school became especially famous for expertly forged iron kabuto distinguished by elegant construction and strong martial character.

The present kabuto is of impressive multi-plate suji-bachi form, forged entirely in iron with numerous narrow standing ribs rising elegantly toward the tehen kanamono. Each plate is densely worked with prominent standing rivets, creating an exceptionally rich and architectural surface. The iron has developed a magnificent deep russet-brown patina over centuries, greatly enhancing the sculptural quality of the helmet.

Particularly striking is the bold gilt maedate mounted to the front of the bowl. Executed in dramatic openwork geometric form surrounding a suspended lozenge-shaped element, the crest gives the kabuto a highly distinctive silhouette and remarkable visual presence. The broad fukigaeshi retain decorative metal roundels which provide an elegant contrast to the austere iron surfaces.

The multi-lame shikoro is finished in dark blue-black odoshi with contrasting golden-orange silk details. The lacing has aged beautifully and harmonises exceptionally well with the warm russet iron tones throughout the piece.

The accompanying iron menpō is exceptionally expressive and finely forged, displaying sharply modelled features with pronounced cheeks, powerful nose, and deeply cut mouth opening. The dark iron surface retains excellent age and character, while the attached yodarekake continues the same refined lacing scheme as the helmet, creating a highly cohesive ensemble.

An especially appealing aspect of this kabuto and menpō is the honest untouched condition throughout. The iron surfaces retain their original character and age-developed patina, qualities highly sought after by collectors of authentic Japanese arms and armour.

A visually commanding and beautifully preserved signed Edo-period samurai kabuto and menpō of outstanding display quality, distinguished by its superb forged iron construction, expressive mask, dramatic gilt maedate, and apparent Myochin-school signature.