Armor (Gusoku)

Restorer/Conservator Restorations by Hiromichi Miura Japanese

17th century; restorations, 2015

Not on view

The breastplate and backplate of this distinctive armor are constructed of hinged iron plates. This design affords a similar degree of protection as solid-plate armor but provides greater flexibility and a closer fit for the wearer. Hinged cuirasses of the seventeenth century are rare, and were among the most expensive and time-consuming types of armor to produce. They are believed to have been used primarily by the Uesugi family and associated domains.

Artwork Details

Overview

Provenance

Exhibition History

References

Title: Armor (Gusoku)
Restorer/Conservator: Restorations by Hiromichi Miura (Japanese, b. 1938)
Date: 17th century; restorations, 2015
Culture: Japanese
Medium: Iron, leather, lacquer, gold, copper, silver, textile, silk
Dimensions: as mounted, H. 68 1/2 in. (174 cm); W. 24 in. (61 cm); D. 22 in. (55.9 cm)
Classification: Armor for Man
Credit Line: Gift of Etsuko O. Morris and John H. Morris Jr., 2018
Object Number: 2018.833.2a–p
Curatorial Department: Arms and Armor

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By Hiromichi Miura

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