Torso Defense (Dō) in the Nishiki Zutsumi Nimaidō Style
The Japanese name for this type of armor, nishiki zutsumi nimaidō, refers to the materials with which it is decorated and to the form of its construction. The exterior of the breast and back are wrapped with an elaborate silk brocade (nishiki zutsumi). Its basic construction is made in two halves, which are joined by a hinge on the left side (nimaidō). In addition, it is highlighted by somegawa (ornately stenciled doeskin).
The breastplate and backplate of this remarkably well preserved dō are made of large iron plates, rather than the kozane (small overlapping scales) frequently found on Japanese armor. The interior, an area usually covered only with lacquer or plain leather, also has stenciled doeskin, an indication of its high quality. The fittings are made of shakudō, an alloy of copper and gold in which the finished surface is patinated a bluish black. They are finely chiseled with Paulownia blossoms and arabesques and are among the best examples of this type of metalwork. The kusazuri (skirt) consists of eight sections, the bottom edge of each being lushly trimmed with bear fur. The colorful odoshi (silk lacing) is equally an integral part of the armor's construction and its decoration. Very few armors of this form, quality, and condition have survived in Japan or anywhere else.
The breastplate and backplate of this remarkably well preserved dō are made of large iron plates, rather than the kozane (small overlapping scales) frequently found on Japanese armor. The interior, an area usually covered only with lacquer or plain leather, also has stenciled doeskin, an indication of its high quality. The fittings are made of shakudō, an alloy of copper and gold in which the finished surface is patinated a bluish black. They are finely chiseled with Paulownia blossoms and arabesques and are among the best examples of this type of metalwork. The kusazuri (skirt) consists of eight sections, the bottom edge of each being lushly trimmed with bear fur. The colorful odoshi (silk lacing) is equally an integral part of the armor's construction and its decoration. Very few armors of this form, quality, and condition have survived in Japan or anywhere else.
Artwork Details
- Title: Torso Defense (Dō) in the Nishiki Zutsumi Nimaidō Style
- Date: 18th century
- Culture: Japanese
- Medium: Iron, leather, lacquer, silk, bear fur, copper-gold alloy (shakudō)
- Dimensions: as mounted: H. 27 1/2 in. (69.9 cm); W. 11 1/4 in. (28.6 cm)
- Classification: Armor for Man
- Credit Line: Rogers Fund, by exchange, 1998
- Object Number: 1998.16
- Curatorial Department: Arms and Armor
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