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Armor (Yoroi), early 14th century; Late Kamakura period
Japanese
Lacquered iron and leather, silk, stenciled leather, copper-gilt; H. 37 1/2 in. (95.3 cm), Wt. 38 lb. 3 oz. (17.3 kg)
Gift of Bashford Dean, 1914 (14.100.121)
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Description
This is a fine example of a medieval yoroi, or Japanese suit of armor. Yoroi were usually worn by warriors on horseback. Compared with European metal-plate armor, yoroi were relatively pliant and lightweight. In this example, small rows of overlapping scales of iron and hardened leather are coated with a decorative layer of lacquer. The rows are joined together by a dense system of vertical laces. The interlocking construction created a surprisingly sturdy defense against swords and arrows.
An image of the Buddhist deity Fudo-Myo-o is stenciled on the piece of doeskin that covers the breastplate. Fudo-Myo-o was a champion of righteous causes. His attributes of external fierceness and inner calm were highly valued by the samurai warriors. Tradition has it that the great military leader Takauji Ashikaga (1305–1358) stopped at a Buddhist shrine on his way to battle and left this yoroi as an offering. His offering must have been well received: he won the battle.
The striking, fanciful helmet has long been associated with this yoroi, although it dates from a few decades later than the yoroi itself.
View more highlights from the Museum's departments of Arms and Armor and Asian Art.
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