Vintage Japanese Okame Mask – Otafuku “Goddess of Laughter” – Folk & Kyōgen Theater Wood Handmade Rug Red hanko stamp serves as

Red hanko stamp serves as a signature of the artist

Originally inspired by the Iomante (bear-sending ceremony)

Having been used lovingly and stored for most of that past century

It remains in good condition excepting the hairline crack in the top tile

The foot register and base are encircled by a full chrysanthemum petal band (kikumon) in crisp white reserve on orange — among the most finely executed details on the piece

Vintage Japanese Okame Mask – Otafuku “Goddess of Laughter” – Folk & Kyōgen Theater Wood Handmade Rug Red hanko stamp serves asVintage Japanese Okame Mask Otafuku Goddess of Laughter Folk & Kygen Theater Description This hand carved wooden mask represents Okame, also known as Otafuku (much good fortune) the joyful female spirit of laughter, happiness, and good harvests. Her round face, plump cheeks, and warm smile have symbolized fertility and prosperity for centuries. Okame features prominently in folk dance and Kygen comic theater, where her laughter is said to invite good