Hand-Carved Boxwood Oni Mask Netsuke – Japanese Demon Sculpture - Wood - Shōwa period (1926-1989)
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Original Japanese boxwood netsuke from the Shōwa period, hand-carved to depict an Oni demon mask, approximately 5 cm high, 3 cm wide and 1.5 cm deep, and in good condition.
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Description from the seller
Japanese Boxwood Netsuke — Expressive Oni Demon Mask
– Small wooden carving depicting a traditional Japanese oni mask
– Strong facial modelling with prominent brows and an open mouth
– Approximately 5 × 3 × 1.5 cm
Summary: A finely detailed netsuke-style carving of an oni, the powerful supernatural figure familiar from Japanese folklore, theatre and traditional decorative arts. Carved from wood described as tsuge, or Japanese boxwood, the piece has a dark polished appearance and a particularly expressive face.
The composition concentrates entirely on the features of the mask. Heavy eyebrows curve above deeply modelled eyes, while the broad nose, muscular cheeks and open mouth create an intense theatrical expression. The sculptor has used a combination of smooth rounded surfaces and sharply defined carved lines to emphasise the character of the demon.
Oni occupy an important place in Japanese mythology. Although frequently represented as frightening creatures, they are also associated with the expulsion of evil and the restoration of order. During the Setsubun festival, the familiar custom of throwing beans symbolically drives away malevolent oni.
The carving also recalls Japanese theatrical masks, where exaggerated facial features communicate emotion and supernatural identity. Its sculptural quality makes it equally suitable for display as a miniature object.
The seller describes the piece as unused. Its precise age and maker have not been established.
Material: Boxwood-type carving wood
Dimensions: Approximately 5 cm high, 3 cm wide and 1.5 cm deep
Condition: Reported as unused. Minor storage traces may be present. The piece does not stand independently without support.
A compact and expressive example of Japanese supernatural imagery, appealing to collectors of netsuke, folklore and traditional mask design.
Shipping & Handling
We ship worldwide via DHL or EMS with full insurance and tracking. Professional packing ensures safe arrival; combined shipping available for multiple wins. Local customs duties are the buyer’s responsibility.
Seller Guarantee
We specialise in authentic Japanese art and collectibles and guarantee this piece’s authenticity. Questions welcome – we reply within 24 hours.
Seller's Story
Hello, and thank you for visiting my page. I primarily handle Japanese antiques, as well as Western antiques, art pieces, and pre-loved items that have been cherished in Japan. Growing up in a family of historians—my grandfather was a historian and my father was an archaeologist—I have always been captivated by the eras and stories these historic objects and works of art carry with them.
My listings feature collections from both Japan and the West, pieces that have stood the test of time and remained beloved through the ages. Through these rare treasures, I hope to share with you the delight of ownership and discovery. As a professional, I strive for honest and sincere transactions to ensure customer satisfaction, always leveraging my experience and eye for quality.
I strongly believe in not letting buyers down, so I describe items as accurately and thoroughly as possible, prioritizing secure and careful packaging. If you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to reach out. It would be my pleasure to help enrich your collecting experience.
Thank you for your interest, and I look forward to doing business with you.
Japanese Boxwood Netsuke — Expressive Oni Demon Mask
– Small wooden carving depicting a traditional Japanese oni mask
– Strong facial modelling with prominent brows and an open mouth
– Approximately 5 × 3 × 1.5 cm
Summary: A finely detailed netsuke-style carving of an oni, the powerful supernatural figure familiar from Japanese folklore, theatre and traditional decorative arts. Carved from wood described as tsuge, or Japanese boxwood, the piece has a dark polished appearance and a particularly expressive face.
The composition concentrates entirely on the features of the mask. Heavy eyebrows curve above deeply modelled eyes, while the broad nose, muscular cheeks and open mouth create an intense theatrical expression. The sculptor has used a combination of smooth rounded surfaces and sharply defined carved lines to emphasise the character of the demon.
Oni occupy an important place in Japanese mythology. Although frequently represented as frightening creatures, they are also associated with the expulsion of evil and the restoration of order. During the Setsubun festival, the familiar custom of throwing beans symbolically drives away malevolent oni.
The carving also recalls Japanese theatrical masks, where exaggerated facial features communicate emotion and supernatural identity. Its sculptural quality makes it equally suitable for display as a miniature object.
The seller describes the piece as unused. Its precise age and maker have not been established.
Material: Boxwood-type carving wood
Dimensions: Approximately 5 cm high, 3 cm wide and 1.5 cm deep
Condition: Reported as unused. Minor storage traces may be present. The piece does not stand independently without support.
A compact and expressive example of Japanese supernatural imagery, appealing to collectors of netsuke, folklore and traditional mask design.
Shipping & Handling
We ship worldwide via DHL or EMS with full insurance and tracking. Professional packing ensures safe arrival; combined shipping available for multiple wins. Local customs duties are the buyer’s responsibility.
Seller Guarantee
We specialise in authentic Japanese art and collectibles and guarantee this piece’s authenticity. Questions welcome – we reply within 24 hours.
Seller's Story
Hello, and thank you for visiting my page. I primarily handle Japanese antiques, as well as Western antiques, art pieces, and pre-loved items that have been cherished in Japan. Growing up in a family of historians—my grandfather was a historian and my father was an archaeologist—I have always been captivated by the eras and stories these historic objects and works of art carry with them.
My listings feature collections from both Japan and the West, pieces that have stood the test of time and remained beloved through the ages. Through these rare treasures, I hope to share with you the delight of ownership and discovery. As a professional, I strive for honest and sincere transactions to ensure customer satisfaction, always leveraging my experience and eye for quality.
I strongly believe in not letting buyers down, so I describe items as accurately and thoroughly as possible, prioritizing secure and careful packaging. If you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to reach out. It would be my pleasure to help enrich your collecting experience.
Thank you for your interest, and I look forward to doing business with you.
Details
Dynastic Style/Period
Shōwa period (1926-1989)
Number of objects
1
Material
Wood
Height
5 cm
Width
3 cm
Title of artwork
Hand-Carved Boxwood Oni Mask Netsuke – Japanese Demon Sculpture
Depth
1.5 cm
Condition
Good condition
Authenticity
Original/official
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