Lot 59 ZABOSHI KABUTO 座星兜 BY YAMATO YOSHITSUGU 大和吉次

An iron zaboshi kabuto 座星兜 (helmet with prominent rivets) by Yamato Yoshitsugu 大和吉次, featuring a striking lacquered maedate 前立 (helmet crest) in the form of a pair of demon oni 鬼 (horns), centred by a silver kiku mon 菊紋 (chrysanthemum crest).

The hachi (bowl) is constructed from 32 russet-iron plates with large zaboshi (decorative rivets) that gradually reduce in size toward the top, crowned by a five-tiered mixed-metal tehen no kanamono (decorative apex fitting) in chrysanthemum form. The mabisashi (peak) is finished with a roughened texture for visual contrast.

The central plate is fitted with the aforementioned maedate, while the fukigaeshi 吹返 (turnbacks) are applied with printed leather and decorated with the gunsen mon 軍扇紋 (five-bone folding fan crest), traditionally associated with the Asari clan. Below hangs a five-lame shikoro 錣 (neck guard).

The interior is inscribed: “Made by Yamato Yoshitsugu of Bishū” 尾州住大和吉次 (Bishū jū Yamato Yoshitsugu ).

Period: Japan – Late 17th to early 18th century (Edo period (1615–1868))
Dimensions:
Height 32.5 cm (including maedate), Width 36 cm
Weight: 2.615 g

In very good condition with minor wear consistent with age. The mabisashi shows some chips and flaking along the edges. Repairs are visible on the fukigaeshi, while the maedate has repairs to its mounting and expected losses to the horsehair trim. Please refer to the photos for a clear condition reference.