Some Japanese Militaria - *** UPDATED 10 June 2014 ***

[Mervyn Mitton]

The top Japanese auctions in the World are held by Bonhams in London. Their first for this year was

held on the 16th. of May. I had a large Koros on sale and they were kind enough to send a copy of the

catalogue - many of the pieces were quite breathtaking in their beauty and workmanship.

The section on arms and armour was spectacular and I will be posting a number of pieces here for

both future reference by members - and also to show the workmanship.

This first item is a - Uchidashi Iron Kabuto Helmet by Myochin Muneshige. It is dated for 1683.

311 years of age - wonderful condition - and the price reflected this - 25,000 pounds ! (US$40,000)

http://gmic.co.uk/uploads/monthly_05_2014/post-6209-0-38864200-1400937961.jpgclick

[Mervyn Mitton]

http://gmic.co.uk/uploads/monthly_05_2014/post-6209-0-55955400-1400938092.jpgclick

These are a pair of military stirrups. According to the catalogue they are - Lacquered Iron Abumi.

17th Century. They sold for 1,000pounds (US$1600)

[Mervyn Mitton]

http://gmic.co.uk/uploads/monthly_05_2014/post-6209-0-41648700-1400938521.jpgclick

This is a Kasuri Gama , in English - a sickle and chain. 18th Century. A fearsome weapon.

Sold for 1875 Pounds (US$approx.2800)

[Mervyn Mitton]

http://gmic.co.uk/uploads/monthly_05_2014/post-6209-0-26839900-1400938947.jpgclick

This is a Katana - it has Kai Gunto mounts. Dates to the 16th or, early 17th Century.

Sold for 2,000 pounds. (US$ 3200)

POSTS WILL CONTINUE IN TWO WEEKS AFTER I CAN GET PHOTOS TAKEN.

[Chris Liontas]

That helmet is amazing. A real samurai helmet from an early era. I cant imagine there are too many of those still around!!!

[Mervyn Mitton]

http://gmic.co.uk/uploads/monthly_06_2014/post-6209-0-22756200-1402401749.jpgclick

http://gmic.co.uk/uploads/monthly_06_2014/post-6209-0-85778900-1402401846.jpgclick

SWORD STANDS

These are also from Bonhams May16th 2014 Japanese Art Auction. The catalogue is so thick that it is difficult to photograph - each photo will show the full page inclusive of the written details and prices.

[Mervyn Mitton]

EARLY FIREARMS

http://gmic.co.uk/uploads/monthly_06_2014/post-6209-0-37505700-1402402281.jpgclick

http://gmic.co.uk/uploads/monthly_06_2014/post-6209-0-76248800-1402402385.jpgclick

[Mervyn Mitton]

ARMOUR

http://gmic.co.uk/uploads/monthly_06_2014/post-6209-0-00865100-1402402631.jpgclick

http://gmic.co.uk/uploads/monthly_06_2014/post-6209-0-32779600-1402402714.jpgclick

The Armour outline with names of parts will be very useful.

[Mervyn Mitton]

TSUBAS

http://gmic.co.uk/uploads/monthly_06_2014/post-6209-0-95460000-1402402969.jpgclick

http://gmic.co.uk/uploads/monthly_06_2014/post-6209-0-70947100-1402403109.jpgclick

[Mervyn Mitton]

SWORDS

http://gmic.co.uk/uploads/monthly_06_2014/post-6209-0-87375700-1402403308.jpgclick

http://gmic.co.uk/uploads/monthly_06_2014/post-6209-0-06043700-1402403438.jpgclick

http://gmic.co.uk/uploads/monthly_06_2014/post-6209-0-07046300-1402403590.jpgclick

[Mervyn Mitton]

HAND LANCES (sorry wording is blurred on 1st one)

http://gmic.co.uk/uploads/monthly_06_2014/post-6209-0-85016500-1402403783.jpgclick

http://gmic.co.uk/uploads/monthly_06_2014/post-6209-0-63889600-1402403884.jpgclick