Tehen no kanamono
Gashira Class

Tehen no kanamono (天辺金物) also known as “Hachiman-za” are decorative fittings. Often made from soft metals (iron or copper) layered rings, used to adorn the tehan. The tehan being the hole at the top of the kabuto. The plates were often engraved or embossed and held together by a central copper tube called tama buchi. The tama buchi slides through the rings (za) and then expands / flattens out below the hachi (bowl). This secures the tama buchi into place.  Iron Mountain Armory crafts their Gashira class tehen no kanamono and tama buchi from a single piece of brass alloy. This ensures it always keeps it’s form and fit inside the kabuto.

It is often believed the purpose of the tehan was to pass the samurai’s braided hair through, for a more comfortable fit. Some believe it to be the seat of Hachiman himself, giving the name “Hachiman-za“. Or possibly a simple vent at the top of the helmet. The tehen is likely the product of functionality, allowing the overlaying of the plates when crafting a suji-bachi kabuto. The hole helping to absorb any shifting of the plates when the kabuto is struck. Either way the tehen no kanamono adds more ornamental value to the kabuto.

Tehen no kanamono Features: 

• Traditional Gendai Design.
• Quality brass material.
• In Stock.

This is an in stock item and will ship within 3 to 4 days from date of order.

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References:  “The Samurai Armour Glossary” by Ian Bottomley & David Thatcher  /  “The Watanabe Art Museum Samurai Armour Collection Volume 1: Kabuto & Mengu” By Trevor Absolon