Object Record
Images
Metadata
Catalog Number |
BRM2006.1.106 |
Object Name |
Mask, Theatrical |
Title |
Lion Dance Mask |
Other Name |
Shishigasira |
Description |
A wooden Japanese mask painted in red, gold, and black colours. It has black and gold scrolls for eyebrows, black and gold horizontal waves at the forehead, a red nose and mouth, and golden teeth. At the back of the head is attached the fabric tail, which is green with white sunburst patterns, and six bells with long white nylon strands for hair. Two black ears are connected to the mask with string, allowing for slight motion, and the lower jaw is attached to the head with a dowel to allow for movement. |
Date |
July 1987 |
Year Range from |
1987 |
Dimensions |
H-25 W-32 L-48 cm |
History |
Kariya City presented the City of Mississauga with two Shishigasira masks on the occasion of the opening of the Civic Centre in July 1987. These masks are used to perform the Lion Dance on New Year's Day or at other festivals. The dance, also known as 'Shishimai' is done when people want to pray for a good harvest, to drive out evil spirits and for purification. The name is derived from "Shishi" meaning lion and "Gashira" (usually said Kasira) meaning head. At the time these masks were first created Japanese artists did not know what a lion looked like so they guessed and came up with this image. |
People |
McCallion, Hazel |