History of Samurai Masks

Masks were a highly symbolic and functional part of a samurai's equipment.

Samurai masks are incredibly beautiful while also being terrifying. However, their complex designs were not only for looks. They served important functions for the samurai. Each mask was different, an identifying symbol of the samurai and his origins. Studying the masks reveal clues about the world of the samurai in ancient Japan.

History

The samurai began as a special group of warriors meant to protect the noble class in ancient Japan around the eighth century. They were magnificent swordsmen and had to have excellent armor that would allow them to move swiftly during fights. By the 16th century, masks were added as a necessary addition to the armor, protecting the head and face. Over time, the masks evolved to include extra features, both functional and artistic.

Clan Symbols

Each mask contains clues to a samurai's function or clan identity. Various markings, colors, and style of mask would link samurai to the same group or region. Most masks included a form of antlers or horns protruding from the top of the mask. Clan symbols like sunbursts or crests were usually found in a special socket just above the forehead or at the back and the sides of the head. The markings could mean many things, serving as each clan's unique symbolism.

Function

Samurai masks were more complex than simple protection and decoration. The angry faces that were created on the mask were meant to terrify the enemy. While the masks did often give clues as to a samurai's clan or region, they helped to hide the face of each samurai, so that he could not be recognized. Hiding not only identity, the masks also hid any terror that might be found in the samurai's face, giving him the appearance of undaunted courage.

Types

Masks were made of several different materials. The base of the mask was made of leather or metal, shaped into a protective covering. Paint, animal hair, metals and wood were used to decorate the outside of the mask. The masks were made by hand, either riveted or sewn together when made of leather. Some masks were painted red on the inside, which tinted the face of the samurai red, making them even more fearsome.

Considerations

Samurai masks were not only important to those who wore the masks, but also to those who made them and to the families of the samurai. Mask makers won high regard for their specialized craft. Masks also reflected the samurai's code, or bushido which promoted never-ending courage and sacrifice. The masks mirrored the code of bushido because they covered a samurai's fear, if any. Families of samurai continued the pride, passing the mask on to other generations, sometimes to a young future samurai.

References

• Tokyo Top Guide: Samurai Masks
• Mask and More Masks: Samurai Masks

Resources

• "Samurai: The World of the Warrior"; Stephen Tumbull; 2006