The Samurai has always been more than just an interest for me—it has been a way of life. My name is David Thatcher, and I sell authentic samurai armour. My journey into this world began in the 1960s when I grew up in Stoke Newington, London. At eight, a school trip to a museum changed my life. There, I encountered my first suit of Japanese armour. It wasn’t merely a display but a revelation that sparked a passion and ignited a lifelong journey.

Eager to learn more, I immersed myself in the samurai world. This passion led me to martial arts, where I trained rigorously and earned a place on the British Jujitsu Team. Travelling to Japan with the team, I was fortunate to come under the mentorship of a sword teacher who introduced me to the disciplines of Iai and Kendo. Over the years, I honed my skills and earned numerous British and international championships.

As my fascination with the samurai deepened, I sought to understand their craftsmanship. I trained in the traditional Japanese art of urushi (lacquer work) and armour restoration, gaining expertise that placed me among the world’s leading restorers. My work with prestigious auction houses, collectors, and museums earned me a reputation for excellence. Yet, despite these accomplishments, I felt a calling to do more.

In 2019, I launched Samurai Art, a platform that combines my passions for authentic samurai armour, photography, and writing. Through Samurai Art, I aim to share the beauty and history of these extraordinary pieces while inspiring others to appreciate the samurai’s legacy as profoundly as I do.

For those who seek to own a piece of history or learn more about the samurai’s enduring legacy, Samurai Art represents my labour of love—a culmination of decades of dedication, exploration, and artistry.