Noh mask - Earthenware (No reserve price)
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A 17 cm high, 13.5 cm wide earthenware Beshimi mask from Japan, made by Ichiraku in the early–mid Showa period (circa 1930–1960), hand‑painted with gold eyes and dark brow accents, in good used condition with minor signs of age and spots, associated with the Hotokusai tradition and used in Noh and Kyogen theater.
AI-assisted summary
Description from the seller
An impressive and expressive Japanese Beshimi mask, recognizable by the strongly pursed mouth and the fierce gaze. This mask is connected to the Hotokusai tradition and bears the authentic calabash stamp of the well-known Ichiraku (一楽) workshop on the inside. Beshimi masks are traditionally used in Noh and Kyogen theater to portray powerful demons or deities.
This specimen dates from the early to mid Showa period (circa 1930-1960). The Ichiraku workshop was known in this period for producing high-quality masks for collectors and decorative use, with the centuries-old theater aesthetics meticulously followed. The mask is made from a heavy quality earthenware (pottery) and hand-painted. The gold-colored eyes and dark brow lines give the piece an intense presence. This type of mask is closely related to the Kagura and Gigaku traditions and is valued in Japan as a powerful amulet to ward off misfortune.
Condition
The mask is in good condition. The painting shows a beautiful patina and light signs of aging that emphasize the authenticity and the age of about 60 to 90 years. The Ichiraku stamp on the inside is clearly legible and the structural condition is solid. See the photos for a detailed view of the finish and expression.
An impressive and expressive Japanese Beshimi mask, recognizable by the strongly pursed mouth and the fierce gaze. This mask is connected to the Hotokusai tradition and bears the authentic calabash stamp of the well-known Ichiraku (一楽) workshop on the inside. Beshimi masks are traditionally used in Noh and Kyogen theater to portray powerful demons or deities.
This specimen dates from the early to mid Showa period (circa 1930-1960). The Ichiraku workshop was known in this period for producing high-quality masks for collectors and decorative use, with the centuries-old theater aesthetics meticulously followed. The mask is made from a heavy quality earthenware (pottery) and hand-painted. The gold-colored eyes and dark brow lines give the piece an intense presence. This type of mask is closely related to the Kagura and Gigaku traditions and is valued in Japan as a powerful amulet to ward off misfortune.
Condition
The mask is in good condition. The painting shows a beautiful patina and light signs of aging that emphasize the authenticity and the age of about 60 to 90 years. The Ichiraku stamp on the inside is clearly legible and the structural condition is solid. See the photos for a detailed view of the finish and expression.
Details
Era
1900-2000
Manufacturer/brand
Ichiraku
Number of objects
1
Material
Earthenware
Country of origin
Japan
Condition
Good condition - used with small signs of aging & blemishes
Height
17 cm
Width
13.5 cm
Estimated period
1930-1960
