Kyo-Kachuu Kabuto — The Art of Kyoto Samurai HelmetThe defining quality of Kyo-Kachuu Kabuto (京甲冑兜) is its elegance. Unlike battlefield armor, this Kyoto-style samurai helmet evolved as a refined artistic ornament among the imperial aristocracy — a tradition woven from masterful ironwork and the finest Nishijin silk.In Kyoto, the Tango no Sekku (May 5th, Children's Day) is celebrated by displaying this helmet as a symbol of a boy's birth and a prayer for his strength and prosperity.Crafted by 4th Heian Issui — Living National Craft MasterHeian Issui is a Master of Traditional Craft certified by Japan's Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry. His atelier sits at Yamashina, Kyoto — at the foot of the Mausoleum of Emperor Tenchi. The name "Heian Issui" carries deep meaning: Heian (平安) is the ancient name of Kyoto; Issui (一水) evokes the clear water flowing from Higashiyama, the Eastern Mountains of Kyoto.His creative motto: "smooth and beautiful" — every piece flows from raw iron plate to final lacquered decoration without interruption, like a stream of pure water.Red Braid Lacing — The Color of a Warrior's First BattleThis helmet features Odoshi lacing of vivid crimson silk braids woven through lacquered black iron scales (Kozane). In samurai culture, red was the sacred color of a young warrior's first battle — a rite of passage of the highest importance for noble samurai families. Sons of high-ranking samurai wore helmets adorned with red braids as a declaration of courage and lineage. This piece carries that centuries-old symbolism into a work of extraordinary beauty.Craftsmanship Details Odoshi (braid lacing): Two curved iron scales (Kozane) are hand-laced with pure silk threads. Mastering the correct tension requires over five years of training — too tight and the helmet stiffens; too loose and it loses form. When perfected, the Odoshi is soft, supple, and strong. Inden leather: Deerskin dyed and decorated with lacquer — a technique originating in the mid-Edo period (1662–1779). Lacquered box: Gold foil decoration on both helmet and presentation box. The box quality reflects the helmet's prestige. Specification Materials: Iron (scales & crown), silk (braids), brass (metal fittings), Inden deerskin leather (Fukikaeshi base), lacquered wood with gold foil (box) Size: W19.5cm × L25cm × H36cm (including lacquered box) Weight: 7,000g Origin: Japan (Kyoto) ⚠ Care note: Pure silk is used throughout. Keep away from water — silk will shrink significantly if wet.
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