Kogakumen is the general name for the masks used for the traditional Japanese theatrical arts of Gigaku, Maigaku, shrine events, and other traditional arts including Noh and Kyogen, both of which were established as a theatrical art in the Muromachi period (1336-1573). Some ancient Gigakumen masks are now preserved at Shosoin (the Imperial Repository), Horyuji Temple, Todaiji Temple and Kasuga-Taisha Shrine. The first Kogakumen masks arrived in Japan as Gigakumen masks, a part of Buddhism art, together with Buddhism during the Asuka period (at the beginning of the 7th Century). Later Maigakumen masks for gagaku (court music) performance and Gyodomen masks for Buddhist ceremonies to teach the general public about accumulating good deeds and having delight with exaltation were also introduced from China. With the development of Noh and Kyogen, a lot of masks began to be made in Nara district, but later the craft followed a course of decline. It was not until the modern times when classics were reappraised that masks made in this district began to receive high acclaim. The craft is now designated as a Traditional Craft Product by Nara Prefecture. A lot of excellent works are sold at department stores and imitations of these Kogakumen are also sold at souvenir shops as interior items. Now in Nara Pref. there are even several craftsmen with the techniques excellent enough to carve out masks for Noh and Kyogen performances.