Late Edo Full Gusoku Samurai Armor, 32-Plate Suji-Bachi Kabuto, Cross-in-Circle Maedate, Indigo Lacing

A full suit of Japanese armor at near life-size scale, anchored by an iron 32-plate suji-bachi kabuto and unified by deep indigo lacing. A cross-in-circle maedate reads instantly in silhouette and gives the set a strong household identity, a late Edo statement of ceremonial authority that comes with its own armor chest.

The Piece

The helmet is a thirty-two-plate suji-bachi construction in iron, prized for its architectural rhythm: vertical ribs and rivet cadence form a structural spine that feels at once martial and sculptural. Its cross-in-circle crest-form maedate draws its power from restraint, a simple geometry presented with certainty that works as a graphic signature in display and formal settings.

Across the body defenses, indigo-toned lacing brings iron, lacquer and textile into a single atmospheric field, and the fittings read as coherent throughout. The silhouette is that of a complete display armor: the kind historically preserved in household armories, brought out for formal occasions and maintained as inherited material culture.

Gusoku refers to a complete set of samurai armor, comprising helmet, cuirass and body defenses. In the Edo period, complete suits often served as ceremonial regalia and inherited symbols of lineage, displayed in armories, worn in procession and dedicated at shrines as proof of continuity. The included armor chest adds real long-term value, supporting safe storage and movement of the set.

Details

• Era: Late Edo period
• Origin: Japan
• Material: Iron, lacquer, textile lacing
• Color: Deep indigo lacing; dark iron and lacquer
• Components: 32-plate suji-bachi kabuto with cross-in-circle crest-form maedate; cuirass and body defenses
• Measurements: Overall display size approx. W 57 cm × D 55 cm × H 134.5 cm
• Included: Armor chest (storage box)

Condition

• Age-typical wear, candidly described: oxidation, scratches, abrasions, dents, cracking, lacquer losses and signs of historical storage and handling.
• Complete armor sets may include later repairs, re-lacing or mixed components over a long life.
• Photographs are the primary record for evaluating condition.

Authenticity & Care

Attributed to the Edo period; in-hand examination can refine the dating. Offered as a historical display armor, not as wearable protective equipment. Every piece is examined and documented in Japan before dispatch and is offered with the Japonista authenticity guarantee.

Delivery from Japan

Packed by hand in Japan and shipped insured and tracked by EMS or an equivalent express service. Import duties and taxes, where applicable, are payable on arrival. Returns follow our published policy.

Collectors also search: edo period samurai armor for sale · full gusoku armor · suji bachi kabuto 32 plate · samurai armor with armor box · indigo laced samurai armor · antique japanese armor set · kabuto with crest maedate