2. 江戸後期・幕末期 おに除けの鬼の匠の作 塩竃瓦 芸術品

This piece is an Edo period late Bakumatsu era traditional house rooftop demon-warding shikoku onigawara (demon tile), with dimensions of 44 cm in width, 30 cm in height, 25 cm in depth, and a weight of 9 kg. Onigawara are typically crafted by specialized artisans known as onishi, featuring unique shapes and firing techniques, serving as fire prevention and demon-warding elements, usually placed at the ends of the main ridge or corner ridges of large roofs. This item is in relatively good condition overall, with the old plaster on the inside mostly removed to prevent peeling. The back usually has a large amount of iron wire, red clay, and plaster attached. In recent years, due to the reconstruction or renovation of old house roofs and temple and shrine roofs, antique tiles from this era have become relatively rare nationwide, making them suitable as demon-warding antique decorations for bedsides or entrances.