Speaking of Japan (rare non-cat post)

A friend of mine was given this mask several weeks ago.

It reminded me of Noh masks (something I'd picked up in my varied semi-academic wanderings).  I did a little web-research and I think it might be a tengu mask.  I am probably quite wrong, but that's my first guess.  Anyone have any idea what it actually is?

It had this on the inside:

I'd love to know what this says, and I'd be most grateful to anyone who can translate.  I'd be happy to send a pic of Maddie or Ivy or both to the wonderful human who increases my knowledge on this.  Though I'd never know if you're telling the truth or not.  ;)

Probably says "Inspected by 12" or "One size fits most" or something mundane like that...

Maybe it's for an asian production of Cyrano. 

Go ahead.  Amaze me!
 

Comments

[Fiona]

I could ask my Dad once he gets back from his holiday (in Japan!!! truly!) He tried taking the language but gave up after a year :o

All those strokes... hard... I studied Mandarin in school as a kid and failed every year!

[Scooby, Shaggy & Scout]

Sorry we can't help, but we wish you luck in your search. It's a cool looking mask.

[fiona]

Hello,
I finally got around to asking Dad what your scroll says. Alas, it's in 'long hand'... he couldn't read a word!

Sorry about that :o

[David]

Hello, It is definitely a Tengu mask. There is a vast amount of info you can find on any search engine. Nice gift.