Two Japanese Carved Wood Lion Dance Heads, Shishigashira
19th-Early 20th Century

The larger head is boldly carved with prominent round eyes, pierced nostrils, curling eyebrows, and exposed teeth, retaining traces of red, black, and gold decoration. The smaller head has a more compact form, outward-projecting ears, remnants of hair, and traces of painted decoration. Its lower jaw remains movable, preserving an expressive feature of the lion dance performance.

Known as shishigashira, such heads are associated with Japanese lion dances performed at festivals and ritual celebrations. These dances traditionally serve to ward off evil and express prayers for protection, rain, and abundant harvests. The two heads reflect distinct approaches to this enduring performance tradition.

For comparison, the Edo-Tokyo Museum holds a pair of wooden lion heads dated to the third month of 1858, collection numbers 98002312-98002313 and 98002376-98002377, classified among objects of religious and ritual life.

Condition: Surface wear and losses to the painted decoration, with scattered holes and areas of damage. The smaller head retains a movable lower jaw.

{Large: H 7 1/2 x W 8 x D 10 1/4 inches (19.1 x 20.3 x 26 cm); small: H 5 1/2 x W 8 1/4 x D 4 5/8 inches (14 x 21 x 11.7 cm)}.

Provenance: From the collection of a distinguished Japanese collector in San Jose, California, whose life included travels in Manchuria during the 1930s and incarceration in a U.S. internment camp following the attack on Pearl Harbor. These works bear witness to a precious family history and to the conviction and courage needed to preserve cultural heritage through adversity. Upon receiving the family's photographs, newspaper articles, and archival materials, Michaan's Auctions was deeply moved by their thoughtful preservation and enduring respect for history, culture, and art. We are honored to present treasures from this family collection.

For condition report and additional photos, please contact the Asian Art Department.