Description

Antique Japanese carved wooden mask of an okina, or old man, used in the theatrical art form of Noh. Every Noh mask represents a specific character, and when the shite (performer) puts on their mask, the term for putting on clothing (kaburu) is not used. Rather, it is called kakeru or tsukeru (to hang/to attach), as this symbolizes the transformation into the character. The mask shows traces of the facial hair it once had, which has been lost due to age. Inside the mask, chisel marks are apparent and signatures by the artist can still be seen.

Edo period (1615-1867)

Dimensions: 8.75″ height, 6.5″ width