{"product_id":"vintage-japanese-shishi-mai-lion-mask-giant-wooden-festival-mask","title":"Vintage Japanese Shishi Mai Lion Mask Giant Wooden Festival Mask","description":"\u003cp\u003eVintage 1950s Japanese Shishi Mai Lion Mask – Giant Hand-Carved Wooden Festival Mask | Authentic Shōgatsu Ceremonial Artifact | Japan Government Auction\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOwn an extraordinary piece of Japan's cultural heritage with this authentic 1950s Japanese Shishi Mai (獅子舞) festival lion mask, a full-size ceremonial lion head traditionally used during Shōgatsu (Japanese New Year) celebrations and other important festivals throughout Japan.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eUnlike decorative reproductions, this magnificent mask was actually used during traditional Shishi Mai performances, where lion dancers visit homes, shrines, and communities to bring blessings, prosperity, and protection against evil spirits.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHand-carved from solid wood by skilled Japanese craftsmen, the mask features a deep red lacquer finish accented with black detailing and striking gold-colored eyes and teeth that beautifully capture the powerful expression of the sacred lion.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIncluded with the mask is its original festival cover, adding further authenticity and collectible value. Decades of careful use have created a beautiful natural patina with minor scratches, wear marks, and signs of age that embody the Japanese appreciation of wabi-sabi—the beauty found in history and imperfection.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFor improved durability, the original tongue cord has been professionally replaced with copper wire, blending naturally with the overall appearance while preserving the mask's functionality and aesthetic character.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWeighing approximately 5 kg (11 lbs), this impressive ceremonial mask makes a remarkable display piece for collectors of Japanese antiques, museums, cultural institutions, restaurants, martial arts schools, or anyone passionate about Japanese folklore and festival traditions.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis exceptional piece was acquired through an official Japanese Government Antique Auction, ensuring authentic provenance.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAbout Shishi Mai (獅子舞)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eShishi Mai, meaning \"Lion Dance,\" is one of Japan's oldest and most respected traditional performing arts. Dating back centuries, these performances are believed to bring good fortune while driving away evil spirits and misfortune.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDuring New Year celebrations, festivals, shrine ceremonies, and important community events, performers wear elaborate lion masks and dance through towns, homes, and temples. It is considered especially fortunate to have one's head \"bitten\" by the Shishi, as this symbolizes protection, wisdom, health, and prosperity for the coming year.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEach authentic festival mask carries unique character developed through years of ceremonial use.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eProduct Highlights\u003cbr\u003eAuthentic Japanese Shishi Mai festival lion mask\u003cbr\u003eOriginal 1950s Shōwa Period\u003cbr\u003eFull-size ceremonial festival mask\u003cbr\u003eHand-carved from solid wood\u003cbr\u003eBeautiful deep red lacquer finish\u003cbr\u003eGold-colored eyes and teeth\u003cbr\u003eOriginal festival cover included\u003cbr\u003eUsed in traditional Japanese New Year celebrations\u003cbr\u003eTongue support professionally replaced with copper wire\u003cbr\u003eWonderful aged patina with authentic festival wear\u003cbr\u003eSourced from a Japanese Government Antique Auction\u003cbr\u003eExceptional collector's piece\u003cbr\u003eIdeal for museums, galleries, Japanese décor, restaurants, and serious collectors\u003cbr\u003eCondition\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis authentic vintage festival mask remains in very good antique condition considering its age and ceremonial use.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe surface displays natural scratches, lacquer wear, small imperfections, and signs of decades of traditional use, all of which enhance its authenticity and historical character.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe original tongue cord has been replaced with copper wire for improved durability while maintaining the traditional appearance.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePlease review all photographs carefully, as they form an important part of the item's description.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAdditional Information\u003cbr\u003eOrigin: Japan\u003cbr\u003eEra: 1950s (Shōwa Period)\u003cbr\u003eMaterial: Hand-carved solid wood\u003cbr\u003eFinish: Traditional red lacquer with black accents\u003cbr\u003eEyes \u0026amp; Teeth: Gold-colored finish\u003cbr\u003eWeight: Approximately 5 kg (11 lbs)\u003cbr\u003eIncludes: Original festival cover\u003cbr\u003eUse: Traditional Shishi Mai festival performances\u003cbr\u003eProvenance: Japanese Government Antique Auction\u003cbr\u003eDisplay: Japanese décor, museum collection, cultural display, temple, gallery, collector's showcase\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e📢 Important Shipping Policy Update\u003cbr\u003eTo ensure safe delivery, we currently ship one item per order only.\u003cbr\u003eOrders with multiple items may be canceled and refunded. Once your item arrives safely, you’re welcome to place another order.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e📦 Condition\u003cbr\u003ePlease review all photos carefully, as they form part of the item description. Dimensions and additional details are provided in the images.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Real Timeless Vintage","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":59693517734174,"sku":"C217","price":515.5,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0988\/3998\/6462\/files\/ExtremelyRare1950sJapaneseShishiMai_1.jpg?v=1785060532","url":"https:\/\/www.realtimelessvintage.com\/products\/vintage-japanese-shishi-mai-lion-mask-giant-wooden-festival-mask","provider":"Real Timeless Vintage","version":"1.0","type":"link"}