Noh Mask
Shimotsuma Shōshin, Japanese, 1551 - 1616
Geography:
Made in Japan, Asia
Period:
Momoyama Period (1568-1615)Date:
Late 16th centuryMedium:
Carved wood with painted decorationDimensions:
8 5/8 x 5 3/8 inches (21.9 x 13.7 cm)Curatorial Department:
East Asian ArtObject Location:
1970-43-1Credit Line:
Purchased with the J. Stogdell Stokes Fund, 1970
Made in Japan, Asia
Period:
Momoyama Period (1568-1615)Date:
Late 16th centuryMedium:
Carved wood with painted decorationDimensions:
8 5/8 x 5 3/8 inches (21.9 x 13.7 cm)Curatorial Department:
East Asian ArtObject Location:
Currently not on view
Accession Number:1970-43-1Credit Line:
Purchased with the J. Stogdell Stokes Fund, 1970
Label:
Noh masks, an integral part of No drama, are not representative but evocative: their indeterminate features allow an actor to express varying emotions. The masks are small and expose the lower portion of the actor's face. Masks for young women's roles, such as this one, reflect the ancient ideals of female beauty held by the Japanese court: an oval face, high forehead, and false eyebrows painted just below the hairline.
Noh masks, an integral part of No drama, are not representative but evocative: their indeterminate features allow an actor to express varying emotions. The masks are small and expose the lower portion of the actor's face. Masks for young women's roles, such as this one, reflect the ancient ideals of female beauty held by the Japanese court: an oval face, high forehead, and false eyebrows painted just below the hairline.
