Armor (<i>Morohada-Nugi-Dō Gusoku</i>)

An item at Metropolitan Museum of Art

This armor is a rare example of an en suite armor of the morohada-nugi-dō gusoku type (with a cuirass that simulates a bare-chested torso) from the early Edo period (17th century). Warfare in Japan changed dramatically throughout the 16th century, with the introduction of firearms and the utilization of larger contingents of troops. This necessitated significant changes in the design of armor worn on the battlefield, including the introduction of bullet resistant materials and creation of more distinctive armor forms that would aid in making individual troops more recognizable in the chaos of battle. The morohada-nugi-dō gusoku is one type of so-called “modern armor” (tōsei-gusoku), developed during this transitional period. Wearing a cuirass in the form of a bare-chested torso was not only a means of distinguishing oneself on the battlefield, it was also designed to intimidate the enemy.

Arms and Armor

An exhibit at Metropolitan Museum of Art

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.

Metropolitan Museum of Art