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.Asagi-iro Blue — The Elegance of Japan BlueThis helmet is laced with Asagi-iro (浅葵色) — a luminous, pale blue-green named after the color of a young green onion. One of the celebrated shades of Ai-iro (Japanese indigo, "Japan Blue"), Asagi was a beloved color of the samurai class, often used as the lining of the Haori jacket worn by warriors. The interplay of this ethereal blue against the deep lacquered black of the iron scales (Kozane) creates a composition of quiet, refined elegance — the very essence of Kyo-Kachuu.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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