Mask - Wood

This is an authentic Bitchū Kagura mask depicting Matsuo Myōjin (松尾明神), handcrafted by the artist Mitsumine (光峰).
The mask is accompanied by its original wooden storage box and an explanatory leaflet.

According to the accompanying leaflet, Matsuo Myōjin is revered as the guardian deity of sake brewing and plays the role of the principal comic character in Bitchū Kagura performances.

The wooden storage box is inscribed:
"Bitchū Kagura Mask" (備中神楽面)
"Intangible Cultural Property" (無形文化財)
"Mitsumine " (光峰)

Beautifully hand-painted with expressive features, the mask captures the humorous yet dignified character of Matsuo Myōjin. The exaggerated eyebrows, lively eyes, broad smile, and distinctive beard create a vivid expression that reflects the joyful spirit of Kagura.

About Bitchū Kagura
Bitchū Kagura is a traditional sacred performing art handed down in the Bitchū region of Okayama Prefecture. Originating from Shinto rituals, it combines music, dance, mythology, and theatrical storytelling, and has been designated as an Important Intangible Folk Cultural Property of Japan.

Masks play an essential role in these performances, allowing the performer to embody gods, spirits, demons, and legendary figures.

About Matsuo Myōjin
Matsuo Myōjin is widely worshipped in Japan as the guardian deity of sake brewing and is closely associated with breweries and prosperity.

Within Bitchū Kagura, he serves as the principal comic character, entertaining audiences while conveying blessings through humor and lively performance.

Because of this symbolism, masks representing Matsuo Myōjin are appreciated not only as theatrical objects but also as auspicious works believed to bring:

Prosperity
Good fortune
Joy and happiness
Successful brewing and business
Protection and blessings
Artistic Features
Handcrafted Bitchū Kagura mask
Artist: Mitsumine (光峰)
Original wooden storage box
Original explanatory leaflet included
Depicts Matsuo Myōjin
Guardian deity of sake brewing
Principal comic character of Bitchū Kagura
Bright hand-painted traditional finish
Excellent display and collector's piece

This beautifully crafted Bitchū Kagura mask combines Japanese folk tradition, religious symbolism, and theatrical artistry, making it an outstanding addition to collections of Japanese masks, Kagura art, Shinto culture, or traditional folk crafts.

Signed examples accompanied by both their original storage box and explanatory leaflet are especially desirable, and masks depicting Matsuo Myōjin are encountered far less frequently than Tengu or Oni, making this a particularly attractive piece for collectors.

Masks of Matsuo Myōjin are seldom found outside Japan, and signed examples complete with their original box and leaflet offer a rare opportunity to acquire an authentic piece of Bitchū Kagura tradition.

Height 19.9 cm
Width 14.0 cm
Depth 6.0 cm
Weight 200 g

Condition:
The condition is generally good. There is no major damage. However, as it is a used item, there are some damages such as scratches, scuffs, dullness, peeling, fading, wear and tear, dents, discoloration. It has been stored at home. There are many photos, so please take a look.

Atention:
The items listed for sale are all used collectibles. Please consider them to have signs of aging, such as stains, scratches, scuffs, tears, discoloration, fading, fraying, and changes in thread color. We will post as many photos as possible to make it easy to understand. As these are old items, we appreciate your understanding before making a purchase.

Shipping:
The lot will be carefully packaged and shipped from Japan.
We will use either DHL or FedEx for a safe and secure transportation. It usually takes about 2-3 weeks for delivery, and the package will be shipped with a tracking number.
Import duties, taxes, VAT, and any other charges are not included in the item price and shipping cost. Please check your country's import duties before bidding.

070522150708