Arms & Armor of the Samurai

by Ian Bottomley, Anthony P. Hopson, A. Hopson, et al.

Book Overview

Illustrations and text trace the development of samurai arms from their earliest beginning to the ceremonial armor of the Tokugawa era This description may be from another edition of this product.

• Format: Hardcover
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0517644673
• ISBN13: 9780517644676
• Release Date: January 1988
• Publisher: Crescent
• Length: 192 Pages
• Weight: 1.28 lbs.

Customer Reviews

The ultimate book on its subject

This is a large book full of excellent photographs and drawings which would, on their own, make the book an exceptional coffee table book for leisurely thumbing through. It is also an extremely well researched, incredibly in-depth textbook on the design, function and history of samurai armament. If you have an interest in the subject, there is no substitute for this book.

Top notch book for any lover of the samurai

I've run a feudal Japan SIG for 12 years now, and have quite a library on the samurai and Japanese culture. This is by far one of my favorites. The book begins with an overview of the warrior culture in Japan, reviewing the eight points of Bushido (the Way of the Warrior) and the periods in Japanese history. It then begins with photos and descriptions of early history armor and weapons, back in the 800s when Japan was just forming its culture. It then moves into the more and more elaborate outfits and armor, with drawings, photos and historical illustrations explaining how the items were put on and used. The helmet and armor photos are simply gorgeous, with all details showing up clearly and then described in full detail. I could look at the photos of the swords and tsuba, or guards, for quite a while. The glossary at the back helps explain any terms with which you are unfamiliar.Highly recommended for any fan of this fascinating culture.

a classical and best one in peers

i think this is the best book i ever met focused on samurai arms and armor. the pictures qualities are beyond expectation. the price is low comparing to the book's quality. hesitate no more to buy it!

Excellent Reference Work

This book is an excellent primer on the forms and construction of Samurai arms and armour. There are detailed illustrations of the different sections of armour, including correct terminology in both English and Japanese. There are also diagrams of the cording techniques used to connect pieces together. Lavish color illustrations and a glossary of terms makes this work a real find. A top reference work on the subject.

buy this book now

if you are looking for lots and lots of great photos of samurai armor and weapons look no further great book at a great price!!!! also check out the galeno collection for more samurai pics