Traditional Japanese Taikofu Mask

----Description-----

The Taikofu (太弧父) Mask is used in Japanese Gigaku to represent an old widower.

Gigaku is a traditional Japanese performing art that originated in China and was introduced to Japan during the 7th century. It is a type of masked dance-drama that is characterized by its colorful costumes and distinctive masks.

Gigaku was primarily performed at the imperial court and was associated with religious ceremonies and festivals. The performers, often members of the imperial court, wore elaborate costumes and masks representing various characters, including animals, demons, and deities.

The dances themselves were highly stylized and often accompanied by music played on traditional Japanese instruments, such as the biwa (a short-necked lute) and the shakuhachi (a bamboo flute). The movements and gestures of the performers were also highly ritualized and symbolic, often representing specific elements of Buddhist or Shinto teachings.

Although Gigaku was popular during the Heian period (794-1185), it declined in popularity during the medieval period and eventually disappeared altogether. However, in the 20th century, there was a revival of interest in Gigaku; a few practitioners in Japan and around the world performed it.

-----Material-----

Traditional Japanese Plaster & Resin

-----Sizing-----

Please see pictures for sizing. (We use a tennis ball for customers to gauge the size of the items.)

-----Condition-----

Please note that all the masks listed are old and have been used by Japanese people. This gives the items various weathering and imperfections. They are not perfect. You can see the quality of the items in the photos.

You will receive the mask in the photo.

-----Shipping-----

Shipped via Yamato Courier. Includes tracking number.

Import duties, taxes, and charges are not included in the item price or shipping cost.
These charges are the buyer's responsibility.
Please check with your country's customs office to determine what these additional costs will be prior to bidding or buying.

-----Multiple Items / Combined Shipping-----

After checkout, if we can fit multiple items into a smaller box we will always refund shipping.

-----Returns-----

Returns are only accepted on items that have been damaged by Yamato Courier.