A rare and spectacular complete armor, falling into the category of light foldable and easily transportable armors, entirely made of black and brown lacquered leather scales. Even if we can compare this extraordinary armor in its conception with two other armors with lacquered leather scales, one of which is in the Okayama museum and another in a private collection, this armor is absolutely unique in the world, all collections included, because it is entirely made of scales. This armor, which could be used as much by a rider as by an infantryman, remains a mystery in the specialized literature and is still a great rarity for specialists, much more than a curiosity. It is presented on a lacquered box independent of this armor with the coat of arms maru ni igéta. Japan, early 17th century Armor made of lacquered leather scales, visible accidents to the lacquer on many scales and leggings, otherwise very nice patina of age and use. Armor H. : 110 cm approximately Box H. : 57 cm Provenance : - Armand Pierre Fernandez dit Arman collection (acquired in Tokyo in 1989). - Collection Anne and Jacques Kerchache (acquired directly from Arman). Exhibitions and publications : - Armures japonaises dans la collection Arman, Paris, Grand Palais, 1992, reproduced on p. 15 of the catalog. - Pierre Bergé & Associés sale, June 13, 2010, lot 98.