Masks of the Twelve Devas

These seven masks are part of a set of processional masks of the Twelve Heavenly Figures that were used in the Kanjo-e ritual at To-ji Temple, which included a procession of musicians dressed in costumes of the Twelve Heavenly Figures. Stylistic elements suggest that these were sculpted in the late 10th century. Some scholars suggest that they may have been made in honor of the retired Emperor Enyu in 989, when he underwent the Dempo Kanjo-e of the Two Worlds ritual, an ordination into the highest level of priesthood.

— Museum description: Kyoto National Museum (CC BY 4.0), via ColBase / Japan Search.