Japanese Antique Theater Mask of a Mujina (Tanuki)

DescriptionAntique Japanese theatre mask of a mujina, which could mean either badger or raccoon-dog (tanuki). Both creatures are famous in Japanese folklore for their shapeshifting abilities. One of his most popular appearances is in the story of a mujina yokai (shape shifter) who becomes a kozō (little monk) and stands by empty roads at night. The other is of a tanuki who turns himself into a teapot. Mujina can also take the form of a faceless ghost. This mask is carved of wood and lacquered a deep red. His intense eyes, round ears on top of his head and badger nose are all tell tale characteristics.Age: Edo/Meiji Period (circa mid 1800’s)Dimensions: 9″ high x 8″ wide x 5″ deep