A ressei menpō (烈勢面頬) from the late Edo period, signed under the chin by Myōchin Munenaga (明珍宗長) and dated 1815 (Bunka 12). The mask is forged from russet iron, exhibiting the dynamic, fiercely expressive features characteristic of the ressei style, including deeply pronounced wrinkles. The detachable nose (hanabushi) further enhances its martial aspect and versatility. Each ear is pierced with a kikukiri (菊切) motif—an auspicious chrysanthemum cut-out—demonstrating both decorative refinement and adherence to samurai symbolism.
The interior is finished in red lacquer (urushi), a traditional method for protecting the metal and adding visual impact. The mask is fitted with a two-tiered yodarekake (喉垂), or throat guard, constructed from tanned leather honkozane (本小札) plates, laced in the classical manner, reflecting the high standards of Edo-period armor craftsmanship and the enduring traditions of the Myōchin school.