Vintage Japanese Noh Old Man 'Okina' Mask 19th Century Showa Era
Noh masks are used in Noh, a form of Japanese theater that originated in the 14th century during the Muromachi period.
In Noh, there is a principle of using masks for roles such as gods, Buddhas, celestial beings, hermits, spirits of plants, demons, ghosts, and divine beasts, considering the masks as vessels of spiritual power.
While they serve as transformational tools, they possess an artistic allure as sacred artifacts, cultivated through centuries of tradition and the reverence of performers.
Facial expressions such as the beautifully delicate female masks were created to depict human grievances, sorrows, prayers, and various joys.
They exude a presence that transcends more expressions, akin to faces that possess a profound sense of being.
About Noh Mask "Okina"
It is used exclusively in the play "Okina." Among Noh performances, it is one of the most sacred and ritualistic. The mask of Okina, expressing joy, is a deity of celebration that brings blessings such as peace and tranquility to the world, safety and prosperity of the land, bountiful harvest, and the flourishing of families and descendants, along with long life and health.
Dimensions
Height - 22cm
Width - 17cm
Depth - 8cm
Check out my other listings for a wide range of asian decorative antique objects.
For more great finds follow us on socials @hoxton.antiques
Collection London, E5. Postage available in London & the rest of UK for an additional fee.
Vintage Japanese Noh Old Man 'Okina' Mask 19th Century Showa Era
Noh masks are used in Noh, a form of Japanese theater that originated in the 14th century during the Muromachi period.
In Noh, there is a principle of using masks for roles such as gods, Buddhas, celestial beings, hermits, spirits of plants, demons, ghosts, and divine beasts, considering the masks as vessels of spiritual power.
While they serve as transformational tools, they possess an artistic allure as sacred artifacts, cultivated through centuries of tradition and the reverence of performers.
Facial expressions such as the beautifully delicate female masks were created to depict human grievances, sorrows, prayers, and various joys.
They exude a presence that transcends more expressions, akin to faces that possess a profound sense of being.
About Noh Mask "Okina"
It is used exclusively in the play "Okina." Among Noh performances, it is one of the most sacred and ritualistic. The mask of Okina, expressing joy, is a deity of celebration that brings blessings such as peace and tranquility to the world, safety and prosperity of the land, bountiful harvest, and the flourishing of families and descendants, along with long life and health.
Dimensions
Height - 22cm
Width - 17cm
Depth - 8cm
Check out my other listings for a wide range of asian decorative antique objects.
For more great finds follow us on socials @hoxton.antiques
Collection London, E5. Postage available in London & the rest of UK for an additional fee.