Copper Jingasa

ERA: Late Edo (Bakumatsu)

STYLE: Ichimai Dou Sei Jingasa (one plate copper helmet)

REGION: Likely Kyushu or Kagoshima

SIGNATURE: None

Here is a very interesting jingasa that is completely made of copper that has been tin plated and then lacquered. Our feeling is that this piece was made on location in Japan by a western copper smith living in Japan or by a Japanese maker who studied under such a craftsman because the raw copper hammering pattern and tin plating are basic techniques used in this trade which was not a homeland Japanese tradition. During the time that this piece was made, the main ports open to trade were on Kyushu – thus the attribution to the area of manufacture. This piece is a rare example and is in excellent condition.

 

$550