Akuma (Devil) - Childrens face mask (1940s) (Japanese)

This striking vintage children’s mask depicts Akuma, the traditional devil figure from Japanese folklore. Produced in the 1940s, these small-scale paper masks were often sold as inexpensive festival toys or carnival novelties, designed to be tied on with string for playful costume wear. The bold red face, exaggerated grin, pointed horns, and sharply arched brows reflect the influence of both classical oni (demon) imagery and the mid-20th century’s fascination with playful yet slightly sinister Halloween and festival iconography.

Masks like this were typically distributed during Japanese street festivals, seasonal celebrations, and small toy shop promotions. Made cheaply and intended for children, the survival rate is extremely low—most were heavily used, torn, or discarded shortly after purchase. Today, examples that remain intact represent a rare glimpse into the postwar era’s cross between traditional folklore and pop-cultural novelty design.

Measures: 5.5 x 8 inches (child-sized)
Date: 1940s
Origin: Japanese festival/carnival novelty

Rarity: Scarce. While not entirely unique, Japanese devil masks from this period seldom surface outside Japan, especially in well-preserved condition.