Vintage Japanese Cast Iron Mask of Kannon (Bodhisattva) Signed – 8” x 5”

Japanese Cast Iron Mask of Kannon (Bodhisattva / Guanyin / Avalokiteshvara), Signed – 8” x 5”

This finely cast Japanese iron mask depicts Kannon, the Bodhisattva of Compassion, shown with tranquil features, half-closed eyes, and long pendant earlobes beneath a crown-like headdress. A small jewel at the urna (third eye) has been later set with a rhinestone accent, emphasizing her divine wisdom. Kannon, also known in Chinese as Guanyin and in Sanskrit as Avalokiteshvara, is one of the most venerated figures in East Asian Buddhism, revered for mercy and compassion.

Cast in iron, the mask has a deep brown finish and patina from age and bears an impressed foundry seal on the reverse. Its size and weight suggest it was created as a devotional or decorative plaque for temple or household use rather than as a wearable mask.

Medium: Cast iron with impressed foundry seal, rhinestone inlay (later addition)
Size/Dimensions: 8 in. tall x 5 in. wide
Date: Meiji to early Showa period (late 19th–early 20th century)
Condition: Good age-consistent wear and patina, minor surface oxidation; rhinestone at forehead a later replacement.

A striking devotional object embodying the serene presence of Kannon, this mask offers both spiritual resonance and the aesthetic weight of Japanese metalwork tradition.

Height = 8"

Width = 5.25"

Depth = 3.5"