Japanese Agyo Mask
Check out this vintage handmade Agyo Guadian sourced and shipped directly from Japan.
This beautiful Japanese mask was handmade by skilled Japanese artisans, capturing the fierce look and strength of the Agyo.
Our team of licensed antique dealers here in Japan hand-sourced all our masks.
You may have seen the Agyo outside some of Japan's famous temples.
Agyo Meaning
The Agyo is one of the Nio guardians, also known as "Benevolent Kings," a pair of statues found at the entrances of many Buddhist temples in Japan. They protect the temple from evil spirits, demons, and human robbers.
The Nio statues are muscular, fierce-looking warriors, often bare-chested and holding weapons, which contrasts with the peaceful and zen image associated with Buddhism.
The open-mouthed guardian is called "Agyo," who is speaking the sound "ah," symbolizing birth and the beginning of all things. The closed-mouth guardian, known as "Ungyo," makes the sound "un," representing death and the end of everything. This pairing symbolizes the alpha and omega, or the beginning and end.
Agyo Mask Features:
- Japanese Craftsmanship: Handmade in Japan, each mask is crafted to capture the details and powerful expression of the agyo.
- Direct from Japan: This mask was hand-sourced by a Japanese licensed antique dealer.
- Versatile Decoration: Perfect for adding a unique, dramatic touch to any space, be it a tattoo studio, living room, or art gallery.
- Inspirational Art Reference: An essential mask for tattoo artists seeking authentic Japanese motifs and anyone interested Japanese mythology.
Material: Wood
Sizing: Please see the pictures for sizing. (We use a tennis ball to gauge the size of the items for customers.)
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. You can see the quality of the items in the photos.
You will receive the item in the photo.
Shipping: ***PLEASE NOTE: When ordering, please include a contact telephone number for the courier shipping documents. We must ship with a telephone number.
All items shipped via Japan Post or Yamato Courier include a 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 these additional costs before bidding or buying.
Returns: Returns are only accepted on items that Japan Post or Yamato Courier has damaged.
SHOP More Japanese Masks
Check out our other collections of traditional Japanese masks: we have hannya masks for sale and many more.