Noh mask in Uba wood (姥) + bag - Wood - Signed Masa (正) - Japan - Shōwa period (1926-1989)
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Japanese Noh wooden mask of Uba, carved by hand and signed Masa, from the Shōwa period, with a storage bag, dimensions 21 x 14 x 7 cm and weight 161 g, in good original condition from a private collection.
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Description from the seller
Splendid and expressive Japanese wooden Noh theatre mask, finely hand-carved, depicting the character Uba (the elderly woman). This mask is famous for its appearances in important classical dramas such as Takasago, where it embodies the spirit of longevity, wisdom, and conjugal fidelity.
The front features extraordinary artisanal craftsmanship: concentric wrinkles on the forehead and around the half-closed eyes convey deep dignity and serene melancholy. The mouth is slightly open, showing the typical blackened teeth (Ohaguro), an ancient aristocratic Japanese custom. The surface finish is achieved with traditional pigments.
The back of the mask reveals characteristic gouge tool marks on the wood (Hinoki or Japanese cypress), intentionally left visible and finished with a protective dark lacquer. On the back are important authentication elements:
• Fire-stamped seal (Hankō): The square character "正" (Masa).
• Technical marks: On the right there are linear wedge-like incisions, traditionally used by the carver as workshop inventory marks or codes for balancing the thickness and resonance of the wood.
A collectible piece with excellent visual impact and philological rigor.
The mask is accompanied by its preservation pouch.
Specifications and details:
• Character: Uba (Old woman)
• Author / Carver: Signed Masa (正)
• Material: Carved wood, traditional pigments, lacquer, fabric
• Included accessories: pouch
• Origin: Japan
• Estimated historical period: Shōwa period (1926–1989)
• Dimensions: H 21 cm, W 14 cm, D 7 cm
• Weight: 161 g
*Conditions:
In good condition - used, with small signs of age, small scratches and stains.
Antique items originally have scratches, fading, damage, and more. Before making offers please refer to the photos in the listing, but please understand that it is difficult to show all conditions through photos.
*Special notes: DIRT, DAMAGE, SCRATCHES, Minor wear, fading and discoloration present due to age.
The item will be carefully packed and shipped.
*NOTE: the item ships only to European Union member countries; we do not ship to countries outside Europe or outside the EU.
Splendid and expressive Japanese wooden Noh theatre mask, finely hand-carved, depicting the character Uba (the elderly woman). This mask is famous for its appearances in important classical dramas such as Takasago, where it embodies the spirit of longevity, wisdom, and conjugal fidelity.
The front features extraordinary artisanal craftsmanship: concentric wrinkles on the forehead and around the half-closed eyes convey deep dignity and serene melancholy. The mouth is slightly open, showing the typical blackened teeth (Ohaguro), an ancient aristocratic Japanese custom. The surface finish is achieved with traditional pigments.
The back of the mask reveals characteristic gouge tool marks on the wood (Hinoki or Japanese cypress), intentionally left visible and finished with a protective dark lacquer. On the back are important authentication elements:
• Fire-stamped seal (Hankō): The square character "正" (Masa).
• Technical marks: On the right there are linear wedge-like incisions, traditionally used by the carver as workshop inventory marks or codes for balancing the thickness and resonance of the wood.
A collectible piece with excellent visual impact and philological rigor.
The mask is accompanied by its preservation pouch.
Specifications and details:
• Character: Uba (Old woman)
• Author / Carver: Signed Masa (正)
• Material: Carved wood, traditional pigments, lacquer, fabric
• Included accessories: pouch
• Origin: Japan
• Estimated historical period: Shōwa period (1926–1989)
• Dimensions: H 21 cm, W 14 cm, D 7 cm
• Weight: 161 g
*Conditions:
In good condition - used, with small signs of age, small scratches and stains.
Antique items originally have scratches, fading, damage, and more. Before making offers please refer to the photos in the listing, but please understand that it is difficult to show all conditions through photos.
*Special notes: DIRT, DAMAGE, SCRATCHES, Minor wear, fading and discoloration present due to age.
The item will be carefully packed and shipped.
*NOTE: the item ships only to European Union member countries; we do not ship to countries outside Europe or outside the EU.
Details
Dynastic Style/Period
Shōwa period (1926-1989)
Artist
Signed Masa (正)
Country of Origin
Japan
Attribution
Original
Material
Wood
Height
21 cm
Width
14 cm
Title of artwork
Noh mask in Uba wood (姥) + bag
Depth
7 cm
Condition
Good condition
Provenance
Private collection
Authenticity
Original/official
