A mempo [face mask] | Edo period, 17th century

A mempo [face mask]

Edo period, 17^th century

the sabiji-nuri [simulated russet iron] lacquered iron ressei mempo [face mask with fierce expression] forged with deep wrinkles, flared nostrils and open mouth, detachable nose plate, horse bristle moustache and chin tuft, red lacquer interior, four-tiered yodaregake [throat protector] hinged in three sections in guruwa style, kebiki odoshi [close-spaced lacing] in dark blue braid

17 cm., 6⅝ in. wide