Help With Kabuto And Mempo

[javier]

Hi I have been "low profile" a member of this great forum since 2013 but an active reader more focused in nihonto than in katchu.

 

 

I am currently having the opportunity to buy my first kabuto and mempo. 

 

 

I am posting a few pictures of the items since I would appreciate to receive the opinion of fellow members with knowledge in this subject 

 

 

In particular I would like to know if the pieces match, also if possible the type of kabuto, the period and overall condition.

 

 

Any other information will be highly appreciated  

 

 

 

Best regards

Javier 

[AndyJP]

Hi Javier, I think the shape of the helmet is Akoda Nari. The laquer is not in good condition and the nose piece on the menpo does not match but I'm sure others will be able to give you more information.

Regards, Andy

[Shogun8]

Hi Javier,

 

The kabuto is a fairly typical suji kabuto of goshozan (or "high-sided" shape) likely from the Haruta school (Andy - an akoda nari is very distinctive in its shape, with much more swelling at the rear of the hachi and a very pronounced dip around the tehen). The menpo is also a quite common Nara ressei men ("fierce expression"), with - as Andy has already said - a nosepiece which does not belong to this mask (as can be seen by the differing colour and texture of the urushi, amongst other signs).

 

John

[Shogun8]

I should also mention that menpo such as these from Nara were produced in vast quantities of almost identical design which is probably why it was possible to find a nosepiece that is not a bad fit (aside from the different colour and urushi treatment and the fact that the wrinkles on the cheek should continue onto the flanges of the nosepiece).

[javier]

John, Andy, Thank you for your feedback and for sharing your knowledge. I really apreciatte the detailed information that you both provided.

 

Javier

[uwe]

Hi Javier and hi John,

maybe one can add, that helmets of the goshozan type are higher at the back than at the front. The menpo is a Nara men like John already pointed out. Hence also a Haruta work. Unfortunately, the tare or yodare kake (throat guard) is missing. About the age, the kabuto is likely a early Edo work and the men is Edo (to stay on the safe side). Many restoration work would have to be done. The rest depends on the price and your love Javier

[DaveT]

Restoration costs would be around £2,000.00 

There is a lot of damage on the items, missing parts and mis-matched menpo. All can be put right.

One tip about collecting katchu is to buy items in the best condition that you can. The issue now is that the armour will continue to degrade. 


Before

After.
 

[Fuuten]

That looks fantastic though! Especially the maedate is quite unique, i don't think i ever saw a sun and moon design.

[javier]

Thank you Uwe and Dave!