Pair of Japanese Carved Wood Masks, Rare Angama Masks from Ishigaki Okinawa

  
Pair of Japanese Carved Wood Masks, Rare Angama Masks from Ishigaki Okinawa. Rare vintage Japanese pair of carved wood Angama masks from Okinawa's southernmost Yaeyama Islands. When I lived in Japan for nine years, an Okinawan friend took me to their friend's house on Ishigaki Island. The owner presented these vintage hand carved masks to me as a gift in the 1980s. My friend was surprised and told me this was an exceptional gift, and these rare ceremonial masks were incredibly special. Made of a soft, lightweight wood, these hand carved Angama masks were made with amusing facial expressions of both an old man and old woman. The hair was made from native island plant fibers. There are elastic cords (they can be replaced) since these were worn as traditional Japanese Okinawan ceremonial masks.

These wooden masks are in vintage used condition, 35+ years old (please see photos) with a few small marks consistent with age and use. The "hair" is still good and solid. The female mask measures about 10.5" tall x 6.5" wide x 2" deep and the male measures about 11.5" tall x 6.25" wide x 2" deep. They have been carefully stored for many years.

"Angama" is a traditional Ishigaki event held during the annual Obon celebration that shows respect to one's ancestors. Have a ceremonial parade and dances with a Grandmother (Umi) and Grandfather (Ushumai) Spirit wearing Angama masks of an old man and old woman that some residents believe were representatives of the spirit world with special powers. Eye-catching, one-of-a-kind handmade Japanese carved wood wall art, 3D wall sculpture or costume masks. Please look at all the photos and ask about or check any measurements since the photos include close-ups.

SEDONA BELLE VINTAGE SHOP NOTICES. Each item is guaranteed to be GENUINE as described! All items are honestly and carefully described to the best of my ability. Please contact me if you have any concerns. All photographs attempt to visually represent items as accurately as possible.

There may be slight color variations due to monitor and lighting differences. Please examine all photos and carefully read the measurements and details since the photos include closeups. My goal is happy and repeat customers. Check out my other listings for more GREAT DEALS on Special Items!! All were carefully stored in a smoke free and pet free home.

Showcase your items with Auctiva's. This item is in the category "Art\Art Sculptures". The seller is "sedonabellevintage" and is located in this country: US. This item can be shipped to United States.

• Features: One of a Kind (OOAK)
• Region of Origin: Ishigaki Island, Okinawa, Japan
• Time Period Manufactured: 1970-1989
• Production Technique: Carving
• Listed By: Reseller
• Subject: Ceremonial Masks
• Size: Small (up to 12in.)
• Country/Region of Manufacture: Japan
• Material: Wood
• Culture: Okinawan
• Artist: Unknown
• Year of Production: 1980s
• Style: Vintage, Folk Art
• Color: Natural
• Signed: No
• Original/Licensed Reproduction: Original, Rare Angama masks
• Unit of Sale: Multi-Piece Work, Pair of carved wood masks
• Type: Sculptures & Carvings