THE MET
During the Middle Ages, Japanese samurai warriors wore yoroi armour. The term ‘ö-yoroi’ means ‘great armour’ and it was made from pieces of lacquered metal that were connected with silk laces and cords. The breastplate was wrapped around the body and closed by a separate panel on the right side as well as a deep, foursided skirt. Yoroi armour first appeared during the 10th century and was in favour for several centuries afterwards. It was generally worn by warriors on horseback and reserved for high-ranking samurai. The armour became outdated by the 15th century when the samurai transferred from cavalry to primarily infantry tactics.