Page 53 - Fine Japanese Art November 29, 2019 Galerie Zacke

35 | AN IMPORTANT HON KOZANE KABUTO
FROM THE HONDA CLAN WITH MAEDATE
AND MENPO

Japan, late Muromachi (1336–1573) to Momoyama period
(1568–1600)

The sixty-plate iron sujibachi kabuto (ridged helmet) with a five-
stage gilt and copper tehen kanamono. The mabisachi, with fine
gilding on the edge, holds the large and impressive gilt-lacquered
wood maedate in the shape of a shell. The three-tiered shikoro
(neck guards) is hon kozane of lacquered heavy iron tied together
with fine fabric. The upper part shows a flaring gilt iron section
which holds an inscription and the mon of the Honda clan on
each side. The menpo (face mask) is made of iron and shows a
moustache made from horsehair. The five-lame yodarekake are
iron with gilt lacquer and leather.
HEIGHT (with stand) 58 cm

Condition: Excellent age-related condition. There is very minor wear
all around, including but not limited to, small crackling, creases
and miniscule losses. It is very rare to find this complete set in this
condition.
Provenance: Important samurai art from an Austrian private
collection – Lots (31 – 39) are from an Austrian private collection,
assembled with great knowledge and care, as all the objects are in
a superior state of preservation. The collection most prominently
features three Koto swords, no. 31 is listed as a Juyo Token
(= important work).
The Honda clan is a Japanese family that claims descent from the
medieval court noble Fujiwara no Kanemichi. Arguably the most
famous member of the Honda clan was the legendary samurai
general Honda Tadakatsu (1548-1610).

Auction comparison: Another early Hon-Kozane Kabuto was sold
recently at Bonhams, Fine Japanese and Korean Art, 11 September
2019, New York, lot 984.
Estimate EUR 15.000,-
Starting price EUR 7.500,-

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