Ressei menpo

Samurai mask with a fierce expression

Mid Edo ( period 1615 - 1867), 18th century

Kaga Myōchin school

A high-level russet iron mask of me no shita men (half face) type. The expression is fierce (ressei), with sharp yadome and long mustaches. the iron plate is thick and heavy and the shape is elegant and very well refined.

Even if the mask in unsigned, the type and the features suggest a smith from the Myochin school.

On this page is a comprehensive glossary of common terms related to samurai armor.