Gyoyo or giyo-ji-ita (shoulder guards) are leaf like shaped armor plates which were attached to the watagami (armored shoulder straps) of haramaki samurai armor sets, commonly worn by samurai retainers of the Daimyo throughout the late Heian era (794 ~1185).  Although not likely originally part of the haramaki armor design, samurai quickly realized the need to protect their shoulders while in combat.

The gyoyo was first worn over the shoulder as a shoulder guard, tied to the watagami.  As sode (shoulder shields) became more common, the gyoyo were tied in the front of the shoulder, replacing the kyubi-no-ita and sendan-no-ita to protect the shoulder cording and armpits.  As samurai still saw armor protection as a “hindrance”, in time the gyoyo shrunk in size providing minimal protection within the spacing between the shoulder and chest of the Do (cuirass).

Keeping with tradition and honoring the samurai of old, Iron Mountain Armory is proud to offer this special armor piece to be added to any armor set.  Please select from the many different options to make these 2 pieces custom for you.

Features:

• Taisho Class
• Traditional Design and Crafting
• Customization of colors available
• Comes as a set of 2 (left & right)
• Can attached to any Do / Armor set

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