~ Japanese Edo Period (1760-80’s) Ashigaru Armour ~
Here we have a wonderfully preserved full set of armour worn by the Ashigaru, or footsoldiers, during the last vestiges of feudal Japan. This was during the Sakoku, or closed country, period of Japanese history when foreign influences were heavily restricted meaning the armour we see here is very much unchanged since the mid 17th century.
This is a very rare example of a full set and has many interesting features. From the levels of articulation and thinness of the plates this may very well have been an archers or of a matchlock equipped soldier whose main protection would have been the heavy shields they would shelter behind.
This armour consists of a cuirass (dō), chain and plate sleeves (kote), Shin guards (suneate), cuisses (haidate) as well as the iconic Jingasa conical hat/helmet that is made from lacquered leather.
Most of the armour is made from iron with a lacquered covering. The armour is attached with thick laces or embroidered straps.
The chain on the arms is butted mail made from blackened iron links.
This set comes with clothing under the armour which appears to be replacements for display purposes.
It appears that the clan colours displayed on the armour are either Amako or Date.
~ Dimensions ~
The set on its display mannequin is 70 inches (178 cm) tall.
The set on its mannequin is 23 inches (58.5 cm) wide.
The set is 15 inches (38 cm) deep.
The set is 18.14 Kg.
~ Condition ~
The armour is in wonderful condition for its age and the distance it has been moved from its original home.
There are some minor spots of rust in the edges of the armour plates but overall the armour is in brilliant condition with the lacquering protecting the plate.