We are dealers specialising in fine Japanese arms & armour dating from the 15th to 19th century. With over 35 years of experience in the field, we provide procurement and consultancy services for leading collections, museums and auction houses. We regularly exhibit at London galleries and fairs.

Proud to collaborate with:
The Royal Armouries Museum – Leeds UK
The Ashmolean Museum – Oxford UK
The Samurai Art Museum – Berlin Germany

David Thatcher

Japanese armour for me has been a lifelong obsession.  I visited the Geffrye museum located in Shoreditch during the 1970s when at primary school I can still recall gazing upon an armour, being magnetised by its terrifying appearance, majesty and alien appearance compared to the European knight, this imagery of the samurai would stay with me forever. 

During my thirties to forties, I have studied the subject in Japan visiting frequently, writing papers, books delivering lectures, organising international seminars, advising museums and auction houses.
I studied Japanese armour manufacture, conservation and restoration to the level of master craftsman leading to my recognition of being the leading katchushi outside of japan. I was awarded the title of Gusoku-shi by Anjin Miura Kobo which is the highest level a restorer/assembler of Japanese armour can achieve.

During my fifties, I decided to diversify from restoration to follow my ambition to become a dealer. To date, I have held a number of successful exhibitions held in Mayfair London.