Japanese Guruwa Neck Armor

By Crusader1307

An early form of Gorget, The Guruwa Component dates back to the 12th Century. Although used by some of the Samurai Warrior-Class, The Guruwa was seen in use mostly by the “Lower” class of Japanese military. Made of heavy leather with either wooded or iron-plated components, it was tied to the back of the wearers neck. Made of 3 pieces, the larger piece was worn (and placed) – as a “Bib” (on the front). A stiff collar (roughly 2 to 3 inches) was attached and protected the bulk of the throat. Often, smaller upper shoulder guards could be attacked (ad designed to protect from downward slashes).