The Menpō (面頬), also known as mempo, mengu, and occasionally as men yoroi or katchu men, is the term used to describe the various types of facial protection worn by Japanese samurai with their helmet (kabuto). These include somen, menpō, hanpo, and happuri.
Often lacquered, these masks could depict demon faces or kami faces to frighten enemies, among other designs.
Description Menpō were facial armors that covered all or part of the face, providing additional protection to the heavy helmet called kabuto. The helmet's attachment strap (shinobi-no-o) was tied under the chin and secured with the menpō on top. Small hooks called ori-kugi or a rivet (odome) were located at various points to fasten it with the helmet strap. Mengu were typically made of iron or leather, or a combination of both. They could be lacquered and featured a wide range of details, such as mustaches, teeth, and a detachable nose. Most menpō, except for happuri, had a small opening under the chin to allow sweat to escape.
Menpō are similar to masks worn by the cavalry and infantry of ancient Chinese armies, from the Han Dynasty (3rd century BC) to the Song Dynasty (13th century AD).
Types of Menpō Masks
Types of Menpō Menpō are generally classified into several types:
- Happuri: A complete mask with openings for the eyes and mouth.
- Hoate: A mask that only protects the cheeks.
- Somen (full face): Covers the entire face.
- Me no shita men: Generally covers up to the eyes, including the nose.
- Nodowa: U-shaped, protecting the cheeks and chin.
Tempo (or mengu) were often accompanied by a throat guard called yodare-kake.