Object Image

Suit of Armor (Gusoku)

("modern equipment"), first developed in the late 1500s. Relatively light and flexible, it nonetheless provides superior protection. Iron scales sewn together with silk ribbons form the breast and backplate. Iron chain covers the limbs. The crest projecting above the helmet identified the wearer, whose face would be covered by the mask. The figure holds a baton topped with paper strips, a symbol of command. The extensive gilding and the elaborate decoration suggest that a warlord (daimyo) or high-ranking samurai wore this suit. By the time this suit was created, however, peace prevailed, and armor like this mainly served a ceremonial purpose.

Purchase: William Rockhill Nelson Trust...

late 17th century
Iron painted with black and gold lacquer, leather, silk cords and tassels (tosei gusoku (modern equipment))
32-202/28 A-O
Image and text: The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art, 2023

Where you'll find this

Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art
Permanent collection

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