Cuirass (<i>Dō-maru</i>)

Cuirass (<i>Dō-maru</i>)

An item at Metropolitan Museum of Art

The dō-maru is a close-fitting cuirass with a multisection skirt developed to meet the demand for lighter armor. Of lamellar construction and fastening on the right side, the dō-maru was initially worn in feudal Japan by foot soldiers armed with staff weapons. By the Muromachi period (1392–1573), however, it gained widespread popularity among men of all ranks as foot combat in close quarters became the predominant form of warfare. With its green, white, and vermillion lacing, this cuirass is a rare and fine example from that time.

Arms and Armor

An exhibit at Metropolitan Museum of Art

Cuirass (<i>Dō-maru</i>)Cuirass (<i>Dō-maru</i>)Cuirass (<i>Dō-maru</i>)Cuirass (<i>Dō-maru</i>)Cuirass (<i>Dō-maru</i>)

The principal goals of the Arms and Armor Department are to collect, preserve, research, publish, and exhibit distinguished examples representing the art of the armorer, swordsmith, and gunmaker. Arms and armor have been a vital part of virtually all cultures for thousands of years, pivotal not only in conquest and defense, but also in court pageantry and ceremonial events. Throughout time the best armor and weapons have represented the highest artistic and technical capabilities of the society and period in which they were made, forming a unique aspect of both art history and material culture.