Noh mask - Ko-omote (小面) by Fuzan Nansai (富山南斎)

【Important notes】

・International buyers are responsible for any import duties, taxes, and charges not included in the item price or shipping cost. Please note that VAT paid to Catawiki is separate from and does not cover import duties or customs charges in your country. You may still be required to pay additional fees upon delivery, as determined by your local customs authorities. We strongly recommend checking with your country's customs office to determine these additional costs before bidding or buying. Prompt payment of these fees ensures timely delivery.
・Shipping Details: Most items are shipped via Japan Post EMS (airmail). Upon request, we can arrange shipping via DHL or FedEx for an additional fee.
・Damage and Issues: If you receive a damaged item, please contact us immediately before leaving a negative review. We kindly ask for your patience and the opportunity to rectify the issue. The damage must be reported to your local post office within 7 days of delivery, and promptly to us and Catawiki support.

【Product details】

A finely hand-carved wooden Noh mask depicting Ko-omote, created by Fuzan Nansai. The mask is carved from wood and finished with gofun, a traditional pigment made from crushed seashells, which gives the surface a soft, luminous quality. It is accompanied by a silk pouch and a wooden storage box. The artist’s signature is carved on the interior of the mask.

Fuzan Nansai was a female Noh mask artist from Fukushima Prefecture. Born in 1937 in Aizuwakamatsu, she began carving Noh masks in 1966. In 1992, she joined the Aizu Noh Theatre Association and went on to produce and restore masks for actual stage use. In 1997, she became chair of the Aizu Noh Mask Festival, after which she actively held exhibitions showcasing her work. Her masks are highly regarded for their balance of classical form and refined sensitivity.

The Ko-omote mask represents a young woman of approximately sixteen or seventeen years of age in Noh theatre. The presence of Ohaguro, the traditional blackened teeth, symbolises her coming of age. The expression is deliberately subtle and ambiguous, appearing gently serene while also suggesting quiet introspection. On stage, even slight changes in angle or movement allow the expression to shift dramatically, revealing the emotional depth that characterises Noh performance.

There are minor signs of age, including light wear and slight discolouration, but overall the mask remains in good used condition. Please refer to the photos for details.

Dimensions: approx. H 21.2 cm W 13.3 cm D 6.5 cm

・Please make sure to review all the provided information and images before placing your bid.
・We make every effort to accurately represent the product's colors and textures in our photos. However, due to differences in monitors and device displays, as well as photographic conditions, slight color variations between the photos and the actual product may occur. We ask for your understanding in advance.

Thank you for your interest, and happy bidding!