Title: Japanese Bitchū Kagura Mask, Sarutahiko no Mikoto (猿田彦命 / Tengu) Maker: Tanabe Seiyu (田辺聖祐) Dimensions: H 20.7 cm (no beard) × W 14.7 cm, nose length 13.5 cm (H 8.1 in × W 5.8 in, nose length 5.3 in) Weight: 174 g Materials: Wood, urushi lacquer, horse hair Period: Mid Shōwa period (c.1960–1970) This is a wooden mask for Bitchū Kagura (備中神楽) from Okayama Prefecture, Japan. It depicts Sarutahiko no Mikoto (猿田彦命), commonly known as Tengu (天狗). Kagura masks are iconic pieces of Japanese folk performing art used in Shinto ritual ceremonies. Sarutahiko no Mikoto is the sacred Shinto deity who clears the path. The mask bears a powerful expression with its signature long nose, raised brow ridge, and eyebrows crafted from natural pale yellow horse hair. The eye openings are hollow cut-outs, and bared teeth create a fierce, imposing look. This is a classic example of a Bitchū Kagura mask. Carved from a single block of wood and finished in red urushi lacquer. The maker’s mark “Tanabe (田辺)” is carved on the inner back. Tanabe Seiyu is a well-known mask carver for Bitchū Kagura. Pre-drilled cord holes are present, and the original binding cord is included for wall display or wear. Both eyebrows and beard are made of natural horse hair. The lacquer surface shows age-related patina, with minor scuffs, dents and lacquer loss. The horse hair beard has some shedding. The wooden core is intact, no cracks or restoration. Overall condition is good relative to its age. Shipping Notice Due to service adjustments, Taiwan Post EMS will suspend parcel deliveries to the following countries effective March 10, 2026: United Arab Emirates, Bahrain, Israel, Pakistan, Maldives, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Azerbaijan, Oman, Kuwait, Jordan, Lebanon, Greece, Egypt, Morocco. Bidders located in the above regions are kindly requested not to place bids. Note: Delivery to Italy takes approximately 6–7 days. Customs or the courier may contact you for customs clearance. Kindly reply promptly, as delays may result in the package being returned. Contacting them directly can help speed up the process: dogane.malpensa.urp@agenziadogane.it Thank you for your understanding and cooperation. - The photographs form part of the item description. The actual colour of the physical piece may differ slightly from the photos due to camera hardware and screen display settings. - The successful bidder will be responsible for any customs duties and taxes (if applicable). - This item will be shipped via Taiwan Post airmail with insurance.