You have probably seen on social media, videos, anime, and various other media, people dressed with a horse head. And it really is very funny and makes you want to take pictures when you see someone wearing that head. This vinyl and latex mask known as Horse Head Mask is used for humorous effect and as a symbol of anonymous on the Japanese web. In this article, we will understand a little about these masks and how they went viral.
The original horse head mask was originally manufactured in 2002 by Archie MCPhee & Co. It was sold as a Halloween costume in the USA, its goal was to be scary, but it is more funny and iconic. We do not know exactly how it went viral, but it is simply funny and that result is expected.
After thousands of references to the horse head mask, it became popular all over the world. One of the first references happened in 2005 in a guide called Lonely Planet, which told the story of travelers who wore horse masks.
Various funny events, photos, and videos involving people with horse heads spread and further strengthened this meme. Horse masks had a significant peak between 2009 and 2011. There was even a moment where a guy with a horse head greeted Obama. This must have generated even more fame for these masks.
How did horse heads influence Japan?
The first time a horse mask appeared in an anime was in 1999 in Sol Bianca: The Legacy. The second reference in anime was in the anime Full Metal Panic, where there was a character with a horse head called Pony-man, who chased students with a hairbrush.
The third appearance was in 2007 in a school anime for girls called Strawberry Marshmallow. And then in 2013 in the anime Boku wa Tomodachi ga sukunai Next. The mask also appeared in the anime Hamatora in 2014 and in some other places.
Horse masks became very popular in Japan through Nico Nico Douga. Many who wanted to remain anonymous used these masks. A significant influence was from the Japanese artist Wotaken. He posted various videos on YouTube that spread and went viral all over the world.
It may not have been influenced by the horse head mask. But there is even a visual novel or dating game called Uma no Purinsu-sama that tells the story of a girl and a horse with half a human head.
Buying a horse head mask
Nowadays many people have already bought the horse head mask. It can be found on the internet for a reasonable price around 50 reais. After this big viral, various versions and colors appeared in addition to animal heads like unicorns and zebras.
The best thing is to go out with this mask on the street and attract a lot of people’s attention. Many ask to take pictures and question your intellect and species. I myself acquired mine, and you? Do you have the courage to wear one? What do you think of these masks? We would love to hear your opinion in the comments and your sharing.
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