Samurai half mask "tengu menpõ", Edo period (1603-1868)

Description

iron, lacquer,lacing, two-piece, with throat guard “yodarekake” made of four black lacquered iron plates (“itamono”)

This half mask represents a “tengu”, a mythical creature with human and bird-like features. “Tengu” have a mischievous nature and like to play tricks on people, but at the same time they are also regarded as protective powers.