Art Resource - ART211434

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Shishi mask, Japanese, Kamakura period, 13th century. This rare early surviving example of a lion mask is from the Kamakura period. The vigour of the chisel-work and symmetry of the curled hair are characteristic of sculpture of the period. Depictions of the lion and the lion dance arrived in Japan together with Buddhism around the seventh century. As lions were not indigenous to Japan, at first representations were based on those of Tang dynasty China. Gradually however, the lion, or shishi, developed a uniquely Japanese appearance. The mask with a textile body was worn or carried by one or more performers leading Buddhist gyôdo processions to exorcise evil along the route. Notable features of the shishi mask include a prominent nose, moveable lower jaw, a mane lying forward over the head, and very small ears.
JA, 1999.12-19.87

Location British Museum/London/Great Britain

Unique Identifier ART211434

Type Image

Purpose Public

Size 1600px × 1250px

Photo Credit Erich Lessing / Art Resource, NY

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