Kezurata: When the Hannya Breaks (The New Daiyokai Creation)
- DAI YOKAI
- 7 days ago
- 2 min read
If you follow our blog, you've read our Ultimate Guide to the Hannya . You know that it represents the pain of a woman transformed by jealousy. Usually, artisans strive to make her face as smooth as possible, like a perfect Noh theater mask.
But at Daiyokai , we wanted to explore the other side of the demon: what happens inside.
The Genesis of the “Kezurata” model
The word Kezuru means "to plane" or "to carve" in Japanese. I envisioned a Hannya whose rage is so ancient that it has physically cracked and weathered her face. The Kezurata model is not smooth; it is textured, striated, and complex. It looks as if it were carved with violent knife strokes from aged hardwood, or as if it were a temple statue weathered by centuries of mountain wind.
Artisan’s Note: Unlike mass-produced plastic masks, every groove on the Kezurata is designed to catch real-world shadows. If you look closely at the high-resolution photos above, you will see that these "scars" are not just painted—they are physically sculpted into the material.
A technical and artistic challenge
Unlike our classic models, the Kezurata requires a very specific painting process.
The Interplay of Shadows (Washing): I use specific "Washing" techniques to darken the hollows and bring the textures into sharp relief.
The "Raw Material" Effect: Whether finished in Blood Red or Metallic Black, the goal is to create a visual illusion. We move beyond the PETG base to evoke forged iron or antique lacquered wood.
Wabi-Sabi Philosophy: I intentionally seek "beauty in imperfection," ensuring that no two pieces are ever identical
Where should I install it in my home?
It's a mask with character. It's less "traditional" and more "modern/dark".
In a gaming/setup office: The black or blue version pairs perfectly with LED lights. The textured surface catches the colored light.
On an industrial shelf: It goes very well with metal and raw wood.
As a duo: It contrasts beautifully next to a mask Kitsune White, very smooth. The Yin and Yang of textures.
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