Kyogen Mask, Kai-shakushi, with mask bag, beautiful condition (M8)

● Scallop Spoon Mask
An old man's face at 100 years old. As people age, their flesh diminishes and wrinkles form, causing their facial features to deteriorate. Kyogen (a form of traditional Japanese comic theater) created this mask by exaggerating these changes. While a scallop spoon refers to tableware made by attaching a wooden handle to various seashells for use as a spoon, this mask is also called Kaishakushi (scallop spoon) in addition to its formal name Sofu (grandfather), due to its resemblance to the uneven surfaces, grooves, and mottled patterns of seashells. Noh masks for old men are classified as Jo-men and express various life experiences, such as the nobility or lowliness of a person, and the strength or gentleness of their spirit. However, all of them maintain a dignified appearance despite their age, and there are no masks that are intentionally deformed to this extent. This mask evokes a sense of familiarity when viewed as a depiction of an ordinary old man who has spent his life working. In the Kyogen play Koshikiri, the grandfather appears in a kimono and hood, leaning on a cane. Upon seeing his nephew, a Yamabushi (mountain ascetic), who has visited after a long time, he joyfully exclaims, Have some candy from the shelf over there, and bring the dog to hold it! causing those around him to smile wryly.

Size: Height 22.5cm, Width 15.5cm

Please note that the colors in the photos may appear slightly different due to lighting conditions during amateur photography. The item has been stored in a dark place without any use since purchase, and to my amateur eye, it is a beautiful item with no visible scratches or stains.

As this is an amateur listing, detailed information is not available.
Multiple photos are provided, so please research and confirm your satisfaction before purchasing.
As this is an item that has been stored for some time, please refrain from purchasing if you are sensitive to such things. Thank you for your understanding.