Kagura Mask (神楽面) Zhong Kui (鍾馗)

Product Details

Type of Mask

• Zhong Kui 鍾馗：Traditional Chinese deity said to prevent plagues and ward off evil beings)

The effect of this mask

招福 Good Fortune

The smiling face is mainly displayed at the entrance of a house to pray for prosperous business and a good harvest.

Craftsman Overview

小林 泰三Taizo Kobayashi

Taizo Kobayashi, 43, is a mask maker of Kagura, a traditional culture of the Iwami region.

He began making kagura masks at the age of 11, and has refined his unique techniques and philosophy surrounded by this traditional art form. The decorative masks he is selling this time are more than mere ornaments; they are works of art, symbolizing the local culture and spirituality.

Mr. Kobayashi constantly asks himself the question, "What was I trying to convey through my craftsmanship?" is a question he constantly asks himself, and he puts deep meaning into each of his works.

He hopes that people will feel something through his works and ultimately be convinced that this is what he wanted to do with his life.

The kagura masks created by Taizo Kobayashi are not just kagura masks, but living proof of his life philosophy and the rich culture of the Iwami region.