A Nimai-do gusoku [armour] | The kabuto signed Saotome Moriie | Edo period, late 17th century

The Property of a European Collector

A Nimai-do gusoku [armour]

The kabuto signed Saotome Moriie

Edo period, late 17^th century 

the black lacquer on iron sixty-two plate suji bachi with gilt four-stage tehen kanamono, the fukigaeshi [turnbacks] each decorated with kirimon [paulownia crests], the three-tier black lack shikoro [neck guard] laced in kebiki odoshi [closely spaced lacing] with a dark blue braid, the rim with scrolling karakusa on gold leaf on leather, the iron mempo with open mouth and detachable nose plate, bristle moustache, gilded teeth, three tiered yodare-gake [throat protector], red lacquer interior, the do [cuirass] hinged of two pieces, with riveted horizontal plates, the close-laced dark blue braid and gilt leather consistent in all parts, six-tiered sode [shoulder guards], chainmail kote [sleeves], seven tassets of five tiered kusazuri [skirt], the underskirt with further chain mail, the lining decorated with cherry blossoms amidst foliate scrolls in gold brocade, the shino sunaete [lower leg guards] alternating with mail, lacquer plates and leather lining, with armour box