Mask - Wood - 9 Hahoe Masks (河回假面) (没有保留价)

Title: Framed Set of 9 Reproductions of Korean National Treasure No.121 Hahoe Masks (河回假面)
Technique: Wood carving, framed mounting
Single mask dimensions: approx. H 6.5 × W 4.5 × D 3 cm (H 2.6 × W 1.8 × D 1.2 in)
Frame dimensions: approx. H 20.5 × W 93 × D 3.5 cm (H 8.1 × W 36.6 × D 1.4 in)
Material: Wood
Period: circa 1980–2000

This is a framed complete set of nine classic reproduced Hahoe Masks, officially designated as South Korean National Treasure No. 121. A representative piece of traditional Korean folk art.

Hahoe Masks originate from Hahoe Village in Andong, Gyeongsangbuk-do. They are core theatrical masks used for the traditional Hahoe Byeolsin-gut shaman mask dance ritual. Each mask embodies an individual dramatic character and symbolizes the blessing of warding off evil spirits.

The frame contains nine exquisitely carved miniature wooden masks, each presenting distinct facial expressions and authentic traditional carving details. Accompanied by Korean explanatory paper introducing the origin and history of the Hahoe mask culture. Two metal hanging rings are installed on the back for easy wall mounting.

Mask characters (official Korean name in brackets):

1. Bu-ne (부네, Nobleman’s Wife): A gentle and graceful female character appearing in the mask drama. With soft, smiling eyes, she forms a classic storyline with the aristocrat Yang-ban, representing traditional feminine temperament.
2. Baek-jeong (백정, Butcher): A humorous butcher figure with a wide laughing expression and naturally carved eye wrinkles. The character satirizes the rigid social hierarchy of ancient Korea.
3. Cho-raeng-i (초랭이, Jester / Servant): A witty, cunning servant and jester role. Features wide open eyes and openwork hollow mouth carving, acting to tease and satirize arrogant nobles in the drama.
4. Yang-ban (양반, Aristocrat): Represents the upper-class nobleman. With a teasing, exaggerated smile, the character strongly satirizes aristocratic hypocrisy.
5. I-mae (이매, Elderly Woman): A classic aged female figure, featuring soft aged facial lines and split-mouth carving, expressing a benevolent and weathered temperament.
6. Seon-bi (선비, Scholar): Symbolizes ancient Confucian scholars. With sharp eyes and a subtle grin, the character satirizes false and hypocritical intellectuals.
7. Halmi (할미, Grandmother): One of the core elderly female roles, with wide eyes and naturally aged facial textures, presenting a simple and honest appearance.
8. Jung (중, Monk): A monk figure with a raised forehead and joyful smiling eyes. The exaggerated laughing expression satirizes hypocritical religious practitioners.
9. Gak-si (각시, Bride): A young bride character with delicately carved hairstyle and calm, gentle facial features, representing the most elegant and graceful figure of the entire mask set.

The back panel is sealed, so photos of the reverse side of the masks cannot be taken. Consistent with age, the outer frame shows minor wear and ageing. The inner paper matting has natural yellowing. The wooden masks present minor dust accumulation and natural ageing traces. No repairs, fully intact in structure. Overall in good vintage condition.

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- The photographs form part of the item description. The actual colour of the physical piece may differ slightly from the photos due to camera hardware and screen display settings.
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