Category:

Prefecturally Designated Tangible Folk Cultural Property

Title:

Okadake shibai isho・yogu

Okada Family Theater Costumes and Implements
岡田家芝居衣裳・用具

No. of features:

462 pieces

Designated:

March 16, 1994

Location:

Saitama Prefectural Museum of History and Folklore (opens to new page)
4-219 Takahanacho, Omiya Ward

Owner:

Saitama Prefecture

Description:

These costumes and props were once used by the Okada family, kagura performers who were active in the Oto neighborhood of modern-day Chuo Ward.

Kagura is a broad category of folk dances with ties to the Shinto religion. Kagura performances were often followed by community drama performances that included amateur kabuki, masked kyogen, and samurai dramas. This collection centers on items used in these performances.

The collection consists of 397 kabuki costumes, 47 props (e.g. swords and jitte), and 18 set pieces (e.g. draw curtains). 

The abundant costumes include a wide variety of types, the majority of which appear to be homemade.

The materials in this collection were accumulated and preserved across the late 19th and early 20th centuries. They are a testament to the region’s local performing arts culture.

Associated Texts:

(1977). “Survey Report on Saitama Prefecture’s Designated Cultural Properties” (vol. 20). Saitama Prefectural Board of Education.

Please be courteous towards other visitors, locals, and the site’s owners/curators when visiting this cultural property. This cultural property’s availability may vary; for details, please contact the Saitama Prefectural Museum of History and Folklore.

Inquiries (Japanese only)

Cultural Heritage Preservation Division, Department of Lifelong Learning, Board of Education Secretariat　

TEL：048-829-1723 FAX：048-829-1989

https://www.city.saitama.jp/004/005/006/001/019/003/002/p006373.html