Object type: Noh theater mask
Period: Antique
Origin: Japan
Style: Noh (classical Japanese theater)
Subject: Red devil / demon
Signature: Signed on back
Dimensions: 11 inches height × 8 inches width × 6 inches depth
Condition: Good. Wear consistent with age.
Description:
This vintage Japanese Noh theater mask depicts a red devil or demon. Noh theater originated in Japan from annual religious rituals known as matsuri, which were performed at shrines and temples to signify important stages in the annual cycle. Red coloring often indicates a demon or lower-class character, with darker reds reserved for the most evil of demons. When a Noh actor looks straight ahead, the mask appears frightening and angry; when tilted slightly down, the expression becomes sorrowful, displaying the complexity of human emotions. The mask is signed on the back. Condition is good, with wear consistent with age.
Object type: Noh theater mask
Period: Antique
Origin: Japan
Style: Noh (classical Japanese theater)
Subject: Red devil / demon
Signature: Signed on back
Dimensions: 11 inches height × 8 inches width × 6 inches depth
Condition: Good. Wear consistent with age.
Description:
This vintage Japanese Noh theater mask depicts a red devil or demon. Noh theater originated in Japan from annual religious rituals known as matsuri, which were performed at shrines and temples to signify important stages in the annual cycle. Red coloring often indicates a demon or lower-class character, with darker reds reserved for the most evil of demons. When a Noh actor looks straight ahead, the mask appears frightening and angry; when tilted slightly down, the expression becomes sorrowful, displaying the complexity of human emotions. The mask is signed on the back. Condition is good, with wear consistent with age.
