Lot 98 A GOLD AND BLACK LACQUER JAPANESE Ō-YOROI MID SHŌWA PERIOD (MID 20TH CENTURY)

This magnificent Japanese Ō-Yoroi suit of armor, crafted during the mid Shōwa period (circa mid-20th century), is a ceremonial masterpiece that captures the grandeur and warrior spirit of the samurai tradition.
Rendered in gold and black lacquer, the armor is composed of richly decorated components, laced with silk cords in vibrant hues of orange, purple, and crimson, evoking historical designs from the Heian and Kamakura eras. The cuirass, shoulder guards, and skirt segments are layered with lamellar plates, adorned in a striking horizontal banded motif.
The helmet (kabuto) is particularly dramatic, featuring large gilded kuwagata (stylized antler crests) and a rounded white maedate (forecrest) at the center. The fierce, glossy black face mask (menpō) with a mustache and gold-trimmed teeth adds a commanding presence to the ensemble.
The set is completed with black lacquered shin guards (suneate), and is displayed seated on a traditional armor storage chest (gusoku bitsu), marked by battle-worn patina and reinforced corners.

Height with box: Approx. 160 cm, Width: 75 cm.