Set of Japanese Kendo Kote – 1940s

Set of two Japanese kendo kote, dating from the Shōwa period, Japan.

These protective gloves formed part of traditional kendo armour and were worn to protect the hands, wrists and forearms during sword practice.

Dimensions per kote: height 30 cm, width 12 cm, depth 12 cm.

The kote are executed in various shades of indigo and dark blue, with padded hand sections, reinforced wrist and forearm guards, and traditional purple cords. The combination of textile, reinforcement and visible stitching gives the pair a distinctly handcrafted character.

Their original intensive use has given the kote a particularly attractive aged appearance. Wear along the edges, discolouration, old repairs and localised material loss are clearly visible and form an important part of their authentic character.

The set is in beautiful vintage condition, with clear signs of age and use consistent with its age and original function.