Japanese Nô mask Susanoo no Mikoto (須佐之男命) in Kutani ceramic – signed 松田蘇川 (Matsuda Sokawa)

📏 Features

• Type: Traditional Japanese mask – Noh theater
• Character: Susanoo no Mikoto (須佐之男命)
• Artisan: 松田蘇川 (Matsuda Sokawa)
• Material: Kutani-yaki (九谷焼) glazed ceramic
• Dimensions: 21 × 16 × 9 cm
• Weight: Approximately 1.1 kg
• Origin: Japan – Found in Fukuoka Prefecture
• Estimated Era: Shōwa or early Heisei (1970-2000)
• Condition: Excellent condition; iridescent glaze intact, details well preserved
• Attachment: Thick braided cords, in perfect condition (purple & gold)
• Signature: Painted inscription inside the mask: 九谷蘇川

🌀 Susanoo: Impetuous and Protective God

Susanoo no Mikoto (須佐之男命) is one of the greatest figures in the Japanese Shinto pantheon. Brother of Amaterasu, goddess of the sun, he is the Okami (god) of storms, raging seas, but also an avenging hero who slays the Yamata no Orochi serpent.

In Noh theater, his character embodies divine fury, raw, virile energy, but also the ability to conquer chaos. This mask, with its tense and determined expression, powerful features, and semi-open mouth, conveys a vibrant presence, at the boundary between the supernatural and the human.

🧑🎨 松田蘇川 (Matsuda Sokawa):

Matsuda Sokawa is a renowned Kutani ceramic artisan, whose work can be found regularly on various ceramic pieces. Here, he signs a powerful mask, vigorously modeled, true to the aesthetic of men-ushi (Noh mask sculptors).

The significant weight of the piece and the quality of finish confirm a demanding artistic production.

🎨 Kutani-yaki (九谷焼): A Ceramic of Excellence

This mask was made according to the Kutani tradition, a famous ceramic school in Japan. The surface of the mask features a deep brown glaze with iridescent reflections, typical of certain modern Kutani finishes.

The gilding around the eyes and teeth, the enameled black whiskers, and the richness of the textures reflect a decorative mastery typical of Kutani-yaki, while remaining subservient to the dramatic intensity of the face.

🔍 Flaws and Authenticity

• No chips or cracks detected
• Iridescent enamel intact
• Artisan's signature clearly legible inside
• Attachment cords in perfect condition

🦝 Our Opinion

Susanoo is one of the most mythical gods in Japanese Shintoism. We love his expression, his pom-poms, and his iridescent reflections! He is magnificent and of impeccable quality!

🔎 Discover other traditional masks and unique treasures in our "Japanese Art Objects" collection, each object embodies a fragment of history and the artisan's touch.