Vintage Japanese “Kitsune” Mask, Papier-Mâché, Washi, 1960s

Expressive Japanese fox mask (kitsune) from the Noto region, made entirely from layered washi papier-mâché and hand-painted in red, black and golden brown.

Dimensions: height 27 cm, width 16 cm, depth 12 cm.

The stylised lines around the eyes and snout give the mask a lively, almost theatrical expression – typical of masks used in festivals and rituals dedicated to the fox spirit and Inari.

On the inside there is an original paper label reading 能登張子細工, “Noto hariko saiku”: traditional papier-mâché craft from the Noto Peninsula, made in washi technique. The softly irregular surface and visible brushstrokes underline its handcrafted character. The mask has a beautifully aged patina with light signs of use, yet remains in fine decorative condition.

With the small cord at the back it can be hung easily on the wall. Beautiful as a single statement piece, and just as striking combined with other Japanese objects – a playful, graphic accent that brings a touch of matsuri festival atmosphere into your interior.