Description 

獅子頭 Shishigashira - Japanese antique Wood Carving Shishimai Head Mask Kagura Lion Head Foo dog VA870

Shishimai (Lion Dance)
Japan has a long tradition of lion dance and the dance is known as shishi-mai in Japanese. The dance is commonly performed during the New Year to bring good fortune and drive away evil spirits, and the lion dancers may be accompanied by flute and drum musicians.

This vibrant Japanese lion dance mask (shishi-gashira) is crafted in the traditional style used for Shishimai, a ritual dance performed during festivals and New Year celebrations to ward off evil and invite good fortune. The mask features a bold red face with gold accents, expressive features, and a green cloth with white swirl patterns, representing the lion’s body. In Japanese folklore, the lion is a sacred creature that devours malevolent spirits. The act of being “bitten” by the lion is believed to bring health, protection, and prosperity, especially for children. The green cloth symbolizes vital energy and purification, enhancing the theatrical movement of the dance. This piece is ideal for collectors of Japanese folk art, festival artifacts, or theatrical masks, and can be displayed as a cultural centerpiece or used in ceremonial reenactments.

Dimmensions: 12.9" x 9.4" x 8.9" / 33cm x 24cm x 22.8cm

Material: Wood
Technique: Wood Carving

Weight: 1470g

Condition

Antique items have originally crease, stain, damage, and more. I would like you to refer to the listing photos, but please understand that it's difficult to show all conditions by the photos. Special notes: DAMAGE, DIRT, SCRATCH.

About the colors of the photos

The color of the actual item may look different from the picture because of the lighting. The color on a photo can differ because of light, screen settings, personal color perception, etc. Please understand that we can't control the varying light in different environments. Please read the description, check the actual photos, and ask questions if doubts in advance.

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