Kiritsuke-Kozane Hara-ate Do Taisho Class

Kiritsuke-Kozane Hara-ate Do is a tosei (modern post 1550) cuirass made from lamellae style plating, which covers the front and side of the torso.  The kiritsuke-Kozane simulates the look of hon-kozane (true scale) but is made from long, broad strips (ita-mono) of iron or steel plates, known as “sane-ita”, or “itazane”, laced together in kebiki-odoshi style lacing (also referred to as “full lacing”),  which is the same fashion of traditional hon-kozane, worn by daimyo and high ranking samurai alike. It has the same look of the older and more expensive lamellae plated armor, without the extra cost (typically triple the price).

This style of Do (cuirass) dates back to the early 13th century and is a hybrid of the original haramaki Do (belly protector cuirass). The tosei hara-ate do was very likely a standard ni-mai do (2 section cuirass) with the backside removed and 2 adjustable straps added, to be worn while traveling or parading through safer areas.  It was used by the samurai retainers of Daimyo and other high-ranking samurai as an economical, lightweight yoroi (armor). Into the peaceful Edo Era this style of yoroi would have likely been used during the marches to and from the capital.  When worn with a jinbaori (vest) the back is covered and appears as a normal full ni-mai do (2 section cuirass) is being worn.

Select from the many custom options to design your own Kiritsuke-Kozane Hara-ate Do and the armorers at Iron Mountain Armory will be very happy to handcraft your custom yoroi for you.  The hara-ate do is perfect for martial artists wanting to add a yoroi to their training, as well as historical re-enactors, cosplay and samurai enthusiast.  This style of yoroi can be worn by itself or you can add sangu (armor parts) to give it the more full armor set. We recommend adding an uba-obi and sarashi to your order with this item.  Does not include box, stand or obi-belt.

Features:

• Traditional Design
• Fully Adjustable Straps
• Customization Available

Ordering Tips: IF you are between height options, We recommend that you order one size larger AND one size shorter than the size required. The armor is close fitting.  It can close into itself if too big, or be a little uncomfortable if fitted too tall. If you’re planning on wearing a yoroi hitatare or a kikko gane do under the armor, we suggest adding 4 cm to your chest size when ordering.  

References:  “Samurai Armour: Volume I: The Japanese Cuirass” by Trevor Absolon  /  “Art of the Samurai: Japanese Arms and Armor, 1156-1868″ by Kazutoshi Harada, Metropolitan Museum of Art