A Suit of armor (Tosei Gusoku) 18th / 19th century

including a thirty-two plate ruset iron black-lacquered sujibachi with four-stage tehen kanamono, the lacquer mabizashi (visor), fitted with undulating ita-jikoro (neck guards), the lower section in gilt textured lacquer, the fukigaeshi (blow back) with gilt fan-shaped cherry-blossom mon (family crest), the gilt kuwagata with lower section pierced with plants, and maedate (helmet frontal decoration) of circular mon (family crest), the dark red-lacquered russet iron resseimen (mask) of prominent construction with yadome (arrow protector) and gilt teeth, the moustache painted in black lacquer, fitted with a lobed ita yodarekake (throat protector), the lacquered nimai (two piece) okegawa do (cuirass) with seven stage kusazuri, the lower part in gilt lacquer texture en suite, gyoyo with cherry-blossoms mon, the hinged utility door to the lower right, chu-sode (shoulder guards), shino kote (arm guards), haidate (thigh guards) and suneate (shin guards)

Helmet - There are slight crackles on lacquer on the bowl, blow back and neck guards, the gilt on circular maedate is rubbed. Mask - There are slight horizontal cracks on the nose and chin otherwise good. Arm guards - Overall has slight rust. Black lacquer on shoulder guards, cuirass and throat protector have usual crackles and gold section is rubbed.
In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective qualified opinion.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.