Kagura Mask Painting Experience Set

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What are Kagura Masks?

Masks used in satokagura are called "kagura masks". It is said that kagura masks were influenced by Noh plays and Kyogen plays. There are various types of kagura masks, such as Okina masks, Oni masks, Onna masks, Hyottoko masks, Okame masks, Monkey masks, and Fox masks. Noh masks are the most famous type of mask. Noh masks and kagura masks are similar in many respects. However, Kagura masks are worn for entertainment, so there is a difference in that they include funny elements such as Hyottoko masks and Okame masks. The kagura mask is as valuable as the costumes to the group that protects kagura. We take very good care of the masks that have been passed down from generation to generation. Even if they are damaged, they are repaired and used, or they are molded and duplicated to preserve the tradition. Each region has its own unique characteristics, and one of the charms of kagura masks is that you can enjoy the differences in their characteristics.

How to Make Kagura Masks

Like Noh masks, kagura masks are carved from wood. In the middle of the Meiji period (1868-1912), Japanese paper was used instead of wood in some areas, and "papier-mâché" masks made of Japanese paper appeared.
Compared to wood-carved masks, papier-mâché masks are lighter and therefore easier for dancers to handle. They also have the advantage of being easy for the person making the masks to process and repair.

However, the most common type of kagura masks today are still carved wooden masks. The material used for carved wooden masks is paulownia wood, which is the lightest of all woods. On the other hand, decorative kagura masks are also produced, sometimes using wood such as camphorwood.

Kagura masks are made by skilled craftsmen called "men-uchi-shi (面打師) " or "menchoshi (面彫師)".  The method of making these masks differs depending on the region and the craftsman.
Here, we introduce the production process of a particular kagura mask.

Production Process of Kagura Masks (Wood Carving, Bicchu Kagura)

(1) "Wood-carving (木取り)"

In order to prevent distortion, paulownia wood that has been dried for four years or more is usually used. First, the paulownia wood is cut into the required size for the mask.
Paulownia wood is one of the lightest woods, and since masks are worn on the head, the lighter the better, as it is less stressful on the body. In addition, paulownia wood contains very little tar, so it is resistant to stains and uneven coloring, making it suitable for long-term use.

(2) "Rough carving (荒彫り)"

The wood is cut into the shape of the outline of the kagura mask. Rough carving is the most important process, as it determines the quality of the mask.
Based on a paper pattern or a sample mask, the positions of facial parts such as the outline, eyes, nose, and mouth are determined by repeatedly taking measurements. For rough carving, a machete is boldly used. The fine details of the mask are carved with a chisel to create the framework of the entire kagura mask.

(3) "Small work (小作り)"

Each part of the mask is transferred to the roughly carved kagura mask according to the pattern. The surface is carefully carved and shaped with a carving knife or small knife. Drill holes for eyes, nose, and mouth using a drill or other tools.
Finally, the surface is polished with sandpaper to make it smooth to the touch.
Depending on the type of mask, metal hardware may be placed on both eyes.

(4) Coloring

The process of coloring includes a base coat and a finish coat.
The type of paint used varies from region to region and workshop to workshop. In the traditional method, "nikawa (glue)" or "gofun (dried seaweed)" is used for the primer coat. Today, chemical paints are increasingly used due to their superior coloring and durability.
The process of priming is repeated about 15 times, applying paint, allowing it to dry, and then applying the paint again. After that process, the paint is allowed to dry in the shade for about two days. After it is completely dry, it is polished with sandpaper. Next, the same process is repeated about 15 times with the finish coat of paint.

(5) Hair planting, Drilling

Depending on the type of mask, hairs for the beard and eyebrows are planted. A hole is drilled with a drill, and the root of a bundle of hairs is inserted and fixed with adhesive. The hair is made from long, strong horse tail hair.

Kagura mask coloring experience set

Three types are available. Please purchase the side of your choice.

Product 1: Takeminakata no Mikoto (健御名方命)

Product 2: Kushi Inada Hime (奇稲田姫)

Product 3: Tajikarao no Mikoto (手力男命)

How to Enjoy Kagura Masks

• Learn about the relationship between kagura and kagura masks by referring to DVD and other materials, and experience the mystique of old Japan.
• The design of kagura masks differs slightly depending on the region and the mask craftsman. You may color the masks as they are finished, or you may create your own original design.
• Please post your finished work on social networking sites. #original kagura masks
• Let's put on the masks and dance. You can refer to the DVD that comes with the masks for the choreography.
• Let's decorate your room. Takeminakata no Mikoto (健御名方命) has the benefit of "rich harvest" and "prosperous business", Kushi Inada Hime (奇稲田姫) has the benefit of "rich harvest" and "marriage", and Tajikarao no Mikoto (手力男命) has the benefit of "improvement in technique" and "protection from evil".
  
  
  *There are many different legends and interpretations of the reading and mythology of God's name. This website introduces them in one of them.