The Thunder God
Ō-Tobide Noh Mask (大飛出) — Thunder God, Hand Carved Wood
Among the most powerful forms in the Japanese Noh mask tradition, the Ō-tobide (大飛出 "great startled expression") belongs to the kishin category of fierce deity masks and represents one of the oldest mask types in the theatrical canon.
Where the standard Tobide evokes a startled, explosive energy, the Ō-tobide amplifies this to its extreme, wide, bulging eyes and an open mouth frozen in a moment of divine ferocity.
The tobide category represents some of the earliest mask types in Noh's history, developed to portray demons, fierce gods, and supernatural beings whose presence on stage carried both theatrical and ritual weight. The Ō-tobide is the most forceful expression of this tradition — larger, wilder, and more unrestrained than its sibling forms.
Hand carved from wood in the classical tradition, this mask is a striking collector's piece and a focal point for any display of Japanese performing arts, mythology, or traditional craft. Suited equally to serious collectors and those drawn to the deep visual culture of irezumi and Japanese spiritual art.
Ō-Tobide Mask Features:
• Japanese Craftsmanship: Handmade in Japan, each mask is crafted to capture the details and fierce expression of the Tengu.
• Direct from Japan: This mask was hand-sourced by a Japanese licensed antique dealer.
• Versatile Decoration: Perfect for adding a unique, dramatic touch to any space, be it a tattoo studio, living room, or art gallery.
• Inspirational Art Reference: An essential mask for tattoo artists seeking authentic Japanese motifs and anyone interested in the meaning of a Tengu mask tattoo.
Material: Wood
Sizing: Please see the pictures for sizing. (We use a tennis ball to gauge the size of the items for customers.)
Condition: Please note that all the masks listed are old and have been used by Japanese people. This gives the items various weathering and imperfections. You can see the quality of the items in the photos.
You will receive the item in the photo.
Shipping: ***PLEASE NOTE: When ordering, please include a contact telephone number for the courier shipping documents. We must ship with a telephone number.
All items shipped via Japan Post or Yamato Courier and include a tracking number.
Import duties, taxes, and charges are not included in the item price or shipping cost.
These charges are the buyer's responsibility. Please check with your country's customs office to determine these additional costs before bidding or buying.
Returns: Returns are only accepted on items that Japan Post or Yamato Courier has damaged.
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