The fronds were a symbol of the strength of the family line, and showed I eyasu's determination to build lasting peace. This armour was employed by Tokugawa Ieyasu, who led the council of five elders appointed under the rule of the Toyotomi. Ieyasu started out as a minor feudal lord of Mikawa. After navigating numerous predicaments, he gained influence and began a campaign to bring peace to the land for the greater good. Befitting his strong, silent character, his armour was lacquered in impenetrable black, strengthened with scales called "iyozane." This helmet is based on the bowl shape of a "daikoku—zukin" peasant's hat, with the addition of large, flamboyant fern fronds.
The do is a "domaru" type, which opens on the right side and is laced with black thread.
Kote that matches the do by using black thread lacing and strong "itazane" scales, protecting the arm from the elbow down.
leyasu started out as a minor feudal lord of Mikawa. Befitting his strong, silent character, his armour was lacquered in impenetrable black, strengthened with scales called "iyozane." lyozane was very beautiful and also very expensive, using only the finest iron and leather. Leg protection that differs from the do's construction, being made of "kozane" scales fastened by cord.
