Antique and Contemporary Japanese Masks (Noh, Kyogen, Folk)

Japanese masks are cultural artefacts rooted in a very old, highly sophisticated, and stylized tradition. They are essential to both refined art forms and community rituals.

The oldest masks, Gigaku, were used in dance presentations, which later gave rise to the Bugaku. The renowned Noh mask evolved from these forms and is considered the supreme achievement of Japanese mask-making, representing gods, men, and devils. Kyōgen (short farces) also utilize their own masks, and while Kabuki replaced masks with painted faces, the cultural legacy is immense.

Beyond theatre, our collection features pieces used in folk traditions and Matsuri (festivals), such as the Shishigarashi masks worn in ceremonial lion dances. We offer a variety of styles, including rare antique theatrical pieces and high-quality contemporary reproductions ideal for wall mounting.


Condition and Shipping Notes:

  • All art is sold on an "as is" basis. We endeavour to show any flaws, marks, or damage in the photos. We encourage close inspection, as the condition may not always appear the same online as it does in real life.

  • Shipping Price Guide (Approximate Cost): Most standard masks can be safely packed and shipped from $25–$40 across Australia.

To purchase or enquire about a piece, please call the shop on 07 5576 4488 or email us.

Vintage Inadahime Kagura Mask

Origin: Handmade in Okayama, Japan

Age: Shōwa Era (circa 1950's)

Material: Aged Kiri Wood (Paulownia), Gofun, and Pigments

Dimensions: 21 x 13 x 7cm

Price: $185

Stock #: AU04

Shishigashira Mask

Origin: Made in Japan

Age: Showa Period (ca. 1930)

Material: Lacquered Wood

Dimensions: H 22 x W 17 x D 25 cm

Price: $365

Stock #: AU06

Shishigashira Mask

Origin: Made in Japan

Age: Taisho / Early Showa Period (ca. 1920)

Material: Lacquered Wood

Dimensions: H 28 x W 28 x D 32 cm

Price: $425

Stock #: AU05

Buddhist Mask (Bodhisattva/ Heavenly King)

Origin: Japan

Age: Shōwa Era (ca. 1950)

Size: H 34 x W 20 x D 14cm

Material: Papier-mâché

Price: $80

Stock#: RQ02

Shipping: category 3

Buddhist Mask (Bodhisattva/ Divine Figure)

Origin: Japan

Age: Shōwa Era (ca. 1950)

Size: H 41 x W 19 x D 14cm

Material: Papier-mâché

Price: $88

Stock#: RQ04

Shipping: category 3

Hand-Carved Wooden Mask

Origin: Made in Japan

Age: Showa Period (Vintage)

Material: Wood

Dimensions: H 23 x W 17 x D 9 cm

Price: $75

South Pacific Style Wooden Mask

Origin: South Pacific (Sourced in Japan)

Age: 20th Century (Vintage)

Material: Wood

Dimensions: H 21 x W 18 x D 8 cm

Price: $66