Japanese menpo (samurai facial armor) which dates to the mid-Edo period (circa 18th century) and exemplifies the skilled craftsmanship and fierce martial aesthetic prized in samurai armor.
Constructed from iron and finished with a deep rust-colored urushi lacquer (tetsusabiiro urushinuri), this mask adopts the ‘ressei’ style, characterized by an expressive and intimidating visage intended both to protect the wearer and to daunt opponents in battle. Such menpo were integral to the kabuto (helmet) and men-yoroi (face armor) ensemble, offering both physical defense and psychological advantage on the battlefield.
Private collection, Japan
Private collection, Switzerland
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