Japanese helmet (Kabuto) in iron inlaid with silver, Japan early 17th century

Created by 6 wrought-iron plates, riveted together. The dragon and cloud inlays are damascened (nunome zogan), while the silver water drops are inlaid and protrude in high relief. The dragons contort themselves in a tormented environment of clouds and flames above impetuous waves. There are 6 dragons, one per plate. Riveted to the front is a circular plate in forged and damascened steel depicting a dragon coiled around itself. This makes a total of 7 dragons. Protection for the week is assured. The Kabuto is very heavy, as firearms had just been brought to Japan by the Portuguese, and the armor had to be bulletproof.
Signed by Shige Katsu.
In the early 17th century, blacksmith Shige Katsu of the famous Myochin lineage worked for the Date clan in Sandaï. The shikoro has been added, made of chiselled iron with clouds. I think it's older than the helmet, but it's of superior quality, as the incisions in the clouds are exceptionally elegant.
The mask, much older, is not for sale.
The nunome zogan is very well preserved, as the silver is very thick. The silver inlays on the much older shikoro have completely disappeared, leaving only the outlines.
An exceptional Kabuto. No other inlaid helmet of this quality is known.
Good condition, as shown in the photo.