The Kura - Japanese Art Treasures

Robert Mangold has been working with Japanese antiques since 1995 with an emphasis on ceramics, Paintings, Armour and Buddhist furniture.

18th c. Japanese Shishi Lion Dance Mask


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Directory: Archives: Regional Art: Asian: Japanese: Pre 1800: Item # 1492420

Please refer to our stock # K067 when inquiring.
The Kura
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23 Murasakino Monzen-cho
Kita-ward Kyoto 603-8216
tel.81-75-201-3497
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sold, thank you

An unusual mask with gaping jaws and flattened features covered in red and black lacquer with golden teeth and eyes dated a lucky day in the 6th month of Tenmei 2 (1782). The mask is of carved wood covered in cloth over which has been applied layers of colored lacquer, gold and gofun (powdered shell) to form the white eyebrows. It is quite unusual in configuration. Most masks are open at the back, however this is carved with curling hair all the way down to the neck. Two holes in the teeth were likely so that the dancer could see out when the mouth was closed. The mask is 33.5 x 42.5 x 23.5 cm (13-1/4 x 17 x 9-1/4 inches). There are losses and cracks in the lacquer consistent with age.