Vintage Japanese Samurai Armor Yoroi by Tadayasu – “Lion King”
This exceptional vintage Japanese samurai armor was made in Japan in the 1980s by Japanese armor craftsman Tadayasu (忠保).
Its name is “Lion King.”
Featuring a hand-carved gold dragon maedate, a powerful lion motif on the torso, green silk odoshi lacing, pure gold-plated decorative sections, and elaborate Kyoto-style textiles, this armor combines powerful samurai aesthetics with refined Japanese craftsmanship.
Please note: This armor is for display purposes only and cannot be worn.
HIGHLIGHTS
• The dramatic gold dragon maedate was hand-carved from wood by a skilled craftsman and finished with gold leaf.
• The torso features a striking lion motif, giving the armor its distinctive name, “Lion King.”
• Gold-colored decorative sections throughout the armor feature pure gold plating.
• Thick iron armor plates are connected with elegant green silk odoshi lacing.
• Gold-and-black iron arm sections create a strong visual contrast.
• Decorative fabrics incorporate traditional Kyoto gold-thread dyeing techniques.
• Original nameplates bearing the name Tadayasu are included.
• The accompanying white plaque states that this was an award-winning work receiving the Chairman’s Award from the Japan Hina Doll Association.
The combination of the golden dragon, lion design, green silk, elaborate metalwork, and richly patterned textiles gives this armor a distinctive presence from every angle.
NANBOKUCHO STYLE
This armor is presented in the style of Japan’s Nanbokucho period (1336–1392).
The bold helmet ornament and powerful silhouette reflect the imposing visual character associated with samurai armor of that historical tradition.
This particular armor itself was made in the 1980s and is not an original medieval-period suit of armor.
ITEM DETAILS
Item Name: Lion King
Item: Japanese Samurai Armor / Yoroi
Maker: Tadayasu
Country of Origin: Japan
Period: 1980s
Historical Style: Nanbokucho-period style
Materials: Iron, leather, wood, paper, silk
Finishes: Pure gold plating, gold leaf, gold finish, lacquer finish
Display Height: Approx. 86 cm / 33.9 in
Width: Approx. 47 cm / 18.5 in
Depth: Approx. 43 cm / 16.9 in
Weight: Approx. 7.2 kg / 15.9 lb including presentation box
Included: Samurai armor, kabuto helmet, high-quality lacquered storage box, decorative stand, Tadayasu nameplates, and award plaque shown in the photographs.
Condition: Excellent vintage condition.
This armor has been carefully inspected in Japan before listing.
If you have any questions regarding display, storage, or the historical background of this armor, please feel free to contact us.