title: important intangible cultural property — bicchū kagura mask “susanoo-no-mikoto” by seiyū (okayama, japan, 1970–1990s) description: an authentic bicchū kagura mask representing susanoo-no-mikoto, crafted by the mask maker seiyū under the bicchū folk art company (備中民芸, okayama prefecture). this piece follows the traditional methods used for the officially designated important intangible cultural property of okayama prefecture: “bicchū kagura.” details: name: bicchū kagura mask “susanoo-no-mikoto” (素盞嗚命) maker’s signature: seiyū (聖祐), incised on the reverse manufacturer: bicchū mingei co., ltd. (narawa, takahashi city, okayama) period: late shōwa to early heisei (ca. 1970–1990s) material: carved wood (likely japanese cypress), lacquered surface, gold leaf and natural hair embellishments technique: traditional wood carving with gofun ground, urushi lacquer coating, and polished pigments (vermilion, black, and gold) decoration: gold-leafed eyes, red-painted mouth, black eyebrows and beard; implanted horse or boar hair accessories: original wooden tomobako (signed and stamped), information leaflet, and hemp cords (shimenawa-style) dimensions: height 22.5 cm × width 17.5 cm × weight 345 g about bicchū kagura: bicchū kagura (備中神楽) is a classical shinto ritual dance-drama from western okayama prefecture, dating back to the edo period. its performances dramatize ancient japanese myths—most notably the defeat of the eight-headed serpent (yamata-no-orochi)—and are performed to pray for prosperity and the expulsion of evil. in 1979, bicchū kagura was officially designated as an important intangible cultural property of okayama prefecture. each kagura mask, or “maimen,” embodies the spirit and personality of its respective deity through exaggerated expressions, gold-leaf accents, and implanted hair. about this mask: this piece depicts susanoo-no-mikoto, the tempestuous younger brother of the sun goddess amaterasu, renowned for his heroic battle against the yamata-no-orochi. the mask portrays his fierce, wrathful expression with wide gold eyes and red lips—typical of the “arakami” (wrathful deity) category used in kagura performances. maker and provenance: the craftsman seiyū (聖祐) was associated with the bicchū mingei workshop, based in narawa, takahashi city. this lineage of artisans specialized in kagura masks for both ceremonial and display purposes. the included pamphlet and box inscriptions confirm the authenticity of this piece as an officially recognized product of the bicchū kagura mask workshop. inscriptions on the wooden box: important intangible cultural property bicchū kagura mask signed: seiyū (with seal) red seal: bicchū kagura mask workshop condition: excellent traditional craftsmanship with natural patina. minor surface wear consistent with age. includes the original box, signature, and printed documentation. shipping: to be shipped via dhl or japan post. please note: customs duties may apply.