Japanese body armour has a history that goes back as far as the 4th century, and developed enormously over the centuries since its introduction to the battlefield. It was worn to varying degrees by numerous classes; most notably by the Samurai (and by default the ashigaru), and was seen on the battlefield both on mounted and foot troops.

The armour was was generally constructed from many small iron and or leather scales and or plates, connected to each other by rivets and lace made from leather and or silk, and or chain armour. These armour plates were usually attached to a cloth or leather backing.

Japanese armour was designed to be as lightweight as possible as the Samurai had many tasks including riding a horse and archery in addition to swordsman ship. The armour was usually brightly lacquered to protect against the harsh Japanese climate.

The culture of the samurai was grounded in the concept of bushido - "the way of the warrior." The central tenets of bushido are honor and freedom from the fear of death. A samurai was legally entitled to cut down any commoner who failed to honor him (or her) properly.
A warrior imbued with bushido spirit would fight fearlessly for his master, and die honorably rather than surrender in defeat. Out of this disregard for death, the Japanese tradition of 'seppuku' evolved: defeated warriors (and disgraced government officials) would commit suicide with honor, by ritually disemboweling themselves with a short sword.

Samurai armour display model:

This 1:2-scale replica of the Samurai armour worn by the warlord "Date Masamune" during the Sengoku period. It stands 80cm high and is modelled in amazing detail. Each separate plate of the lamellar armour is an authentic miniature replica made in metal, laced together in the same way as the real thing, using the traditional methods employed in feudal Japan. It includes the chest armour, shoulder protection, thigh and shin guards, gauntlets, topped by the iconic helmet with its neck guard and fearsome faceplate. Complete in 14 instalments, including a display stand, this samurai armour is a fascinating project (suitable for beginners as well as more experienced modellers) that will also appeal to anyone interested in the history of Japan and its legendary samurai warriors.

Masamune information - http://wiki.samurai-arch...php?title=Date_Masamune

Available via ModelSpace subscription only (55 parts sets)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RW6YeLv5UvE

This will be a super series and I can't wait for it to start. At 1/2 scale the size will be impressive, and the quality is excellent, I cannot over emphasise just how good the quality is. I personally would like to see the castle here as an item of interest. I'm sure it will be just a popular as the samurai armour. This is one of the major strengths of model space. You get access to items and kits that you would never be able to buy off the shelf at any price, and of museum class quality that makes the finished model an object of pride and fascination for modellers and non modellers alike.

Regards

Too many great kits, not enough dosh