Japanese Master

Iron Black Lacquered Ryubu Menpo

Description

A ryubu menpō (竜鬚面頬), a type of samurai facial armor from the late Edo period (19th century). The mask is forged from iron and finished with a lustrous black lacquer exterior, exemplifying the refined aesthetic and advanced metalworking techniques of the era. The ryubu style is characterized by a noble, serene expression with smooth, unwrinkled facial features, distinguishing it from the more aggressive ressei type. The menpō features a detachable nose (hanabushi), a practical design element allowing for ease of cleaning and maintenance.

Attached to the lower rim is a yodarekake (喉垂), or throat guard, constructed from honkozane (本小札) plates made of leather. These plates are individually laced with red silk cord and finished with black lacquer, providing both protection and visual contrast. The interior of the mask is coated in red lacquer (urushi), a traditional treatment to prevent corrosion and add a striking visual accent.

Private collection, Japan
Private collection, Zürich, Switzerland

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Iron Black Lacquered Ryubu Menpo