Armor (Gusoku) with Box

Armorer Helmet bowl by Neo Masanobu 根尾正信 Japanese

19th century; helmet bowl, early 18th century

On view at The Met Fifth Avenue in Gallery 377

With its quality of workmanship and the extent of its additional elements, this suit is an outstanding example of a type of late Edo period (19th century) armors that revive traditional styles from before the sixteenth century. Following the pacification of the country in 1600, the practical use of armor waned and high-ranking warriors who were able to afford a newly made suit placed emphasis on its decorative effect. A striking feature of this suit is its additional elements, comprising an armored vest and a brocade-covered pair of sleeves with ornamental bright yellow felt shoulder guards (sode), which can be worn on less formal occasions. Although several examples exist where parts of an armor contain compartments, the use of a medicine container with spoon and an inkstone with brush as it is the case here is unique and not seen on any other known suit. The helmet is associated with the armor and dates slightly earlier (mid-18th century). Pairing helmets with other armors was a common historic practice, and the quality and style of the helmet described here certainly matches the suit.

Artwork Details

Overview

Title: Armor (Gusoku) with Box
Armorer: Helmet bowl by Neo Masanobu 根尾正信 (Japanese, active early 18th century)
Date: 19th century; helmet bowl, early 18th century
Culture: Japanese
Medium: Iron, leather, lacquer, textile, silver, gold, brass, copper-gold alloy (shakudō), copper-silver alloy (shibuichi), feather, wood, glass, boar bristle
Dimensions: H. approx. 67 1/2 in. (171.5 cm); helmet: H. approx. 11 in. (27.9 cm); L. approx. 15 1/2 in. (39.4 cm)
Classification: Armor
Credit Line: Gift of Rosemarie and Leighton R. Longhi, in honor of John Carpenter, 2023
Object Number: 2023.735.5a–y
Curatorial Department: Arms and Armor

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