Itsukushima Bugaku Masks - Prewar Japanese Photograph, Heian Sculptures of 1173, 1912-1930s

Sanju and Kitoku - Bugaku Masks, 1173

Original vintage Japanese photograph depicting two wooden bugaku masks, Sanju (left) and Kitoku (right), created in 1173 during the late Heian period. Both masks belong to the collection of Itsukushima Shrine in Hiroshima Prefecture.

Bugaku is an ancient Japanese tradition of court dance performed to gagaku music. Sanju and Kitoku represent two corresponding warrior dances: Sanju belongs to the Left Dance tradition, while Kitoku belongs to the Right Dance tradition. Both dances have been preserved at Itsukushima Shrine, where their history is closely associated with the patronage of the powerful Taira clan during the 12th century.

The two masks are among the notable surviving examples of Japanese sculpture from the Heian period. In 1899, they were designated Important Cultural Properties of Japan. Their identification and dating are documented in Japanese museum catalogues, including those of the Nara National Museum.

The photograph is a historical document in its own right. Its reverse retains a handwritten Japanese catalogue card identifying both masks, recording their creation in August 1173, and naming Itsukushima Shrine as their place of preservation.

The photograph is attributed to the prewar Taisho to early Showa period (1912-1930s). From a private Japanese collection of historical photographs documenting works of art.

Size (approx.): 10 × 15 cm.

Condition: Vintage condition, with age-related signs of storage.

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