A rare example of samurai armor finished in vibrant red lacquer, featuring a depiction of Daruma on its front. Some elements are rendered in byakudan lacquer, a technique achieved by applying a thin layer of red lacquer over a gilded surface, resulting in a particularly luminous effect.
Kabuto [Helmet]: A sogonari–type kabuto, adorned with horsehair to simulate a human head. Of special interest and rarity is the chonmage, the topknot gathered at the back, an iconic feature of samurai appearance. The shikoro (neck guard) is finished in byakudan lacquer.
Menpō [Face Mask]: A ressei–men type mask (characterized by a fierce, intimidating expression), lacquered in red. The tare (throat guard, or yodarekake) is finished in byakudan lacquer.
Dō [Cuirass]: A ni-mai dō (constructed in two parts) in hotoke style, featuring a large, smooth front plate. At its center is a large painting in black lacquer representing Daruma, the Buddhist patriarch, depicted according to traditional iconography. On the back, Daruma is represented standing. The reference to Buddhism is thus found not only in the lacquer decoration but also in the smooth form of the dō, which is typically associated with the belly of Buddha. The kusazuri (tassets) are finished in byakudan lacquer, with the last plate protected by boar-hair, in the fashion of Momoyama period armors.
Kote [Sleeves]: Of the bishamon–gote type, meaning the sode (shoulder guards), lacquered in red, are integrated into the upper part. The forearms are protected by plates finished in byakudan–nuri.
Haidate [Thigh Guards]: Of the iyo type (with rectangular plates), decorated with two family crests (kamon) depicting a cross (jumon).
Suneate [Shin Guards]: Coated in byakudan lacquer, harmonizing with the style of the kote.
(Inv. #2063)
