Susanoo-no-Mikoto Mask by Tanabe Seisuke Omoikane The Komainu (狛犬) and Shishi

The Komainu (狛犬) and Shishi (獅子) are lions who protect both Buddhist and Shinto Shrines

The male with the mouth closed and large horns

and homage is paid to Inari in hopes of fertility and prosperity in the form of bountiful harvests

Konron (崑崙) is one of the masks used in the traditional theater Gikaku

Susanoo-no-Mikoto Mask by Tanabe Seisuke Omoikane The Komainu (狛犬) and ShishiTraditional Japanese Susanoo no Mikoto Mask Description Susanno no Miikoto () is the kami (god) of the sea and storm, and one of the most significant in Japanese mythology. Legend is Susanno was born when the god Izanagi washed his nose. He is the younger brother of Amaterasu, the sun goddess and ancestress of the Japanese imperial line. After feuding with his sister, Susanno was thrown out of heaven. When he descended to earth, he found a couple who