Noh mask - Yew (No Reserve Price)

09
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€ 33
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Giovanni Bottero
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Selected by Giovanni Bottero

Holds a master’s in Japanese art history with over 10 years’ expertise in Asian art.

Estimate  € 200 - € 250
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roBidder 2428 €33
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roBidder 2428 €19

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Noh mask Hannya carved in one-stroke Ittobori from a single block of yew wood, origin 岐阜飛騨高山, Japan, by Nakamura Ikkoku (中村一刻), dating to 1950–1960, 1970–1980 and 1980–1990, in good used condition with minor signs of aging, dimensions 24.5 cm high by 18 cm wide.

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Description from the seller

- Shipping method : EMS (Japanese post office)

Japanese Noh Mask (Hannya) - Masterpiece of Traditional "Ittobori" Carving
This is an authentic Noh mask known as Hannya (般若), used in the traditional Japanese performing art of Noh (能).

Noh is one of the world's oldest forms of musical drama, with a history spanning over 650 years. It is a highly stylized, spiritual, and aesthetic art form combining dance, music, and chanting, often telling tales of ghosts, demons, and human emotions. The mask is central to the performance, conveying the character's emotional state.

Exquisite Craftsmanship: One-Piece "Ittobori" from Yew Wood
This particular mask is a striking example of the Japanese traditional craft technique called Ittobori (一刀彫), meaning "One-Stroke Carving."

Ittobori Technique: It is characterized by bold, powerful strokes of the chisel, where the carver's dynamic energy is left visible on the surface, creating a unique texture and sense of movement.

Material: It is meticulously carved from a single, seamless one-piece block of precious Yew wood (イチイの木). The wood's deep, rich color and exceptional grain give the mask a breathtakingly lifelike presence and warmth.

The Story of Hannya
The Hannya mask represents a woman who has been utterly consumed by jealousy and resentment, transforming her into a fierce demon or female ogre. While terrifying, the mask is also deeply moving, as it captures the underlying pain and sorrow of human suffering, giving profound emotional depth to the Noh plays.

A Must-Have for Collectors and Enthusiasts
This piece is more than just a mask; it is a soulful work of art embodying the spirit of Japanese tradition and master craftsmanship. The dramatic form and natural beauty of the wood grain are captivating.

Ideal for both collectors of Japanese fine arts and enthusiasts of unique, statement-making decor. Display it in a modern setting to instantly introduce an exotic, sophisticated, and dramatic Japanese aesthetic to your space.

- Shipping method : EMS (Japanese post office)

Japanese Noh Mask (Hannya) - Masterpiece of Traditional "Ittobori" Carving
This is an authentic Noh mask known as Hannya (般若), used in the traditional Japanese performing art of Noh (能).

Noh is one of the world's oldest forms of musical drama, with a history spanning over 650 years. It is a highly stylized, spiritual, and aesthetic art form combining dance, music, and chanting, often telling tales of ghosts, demons, and human emotions. The mask is central to the performance, conveying the character's emotional state.

Exquisite Craftsmanship: One-Piece "Ittobori" from Yew Wood
This particular mask is a striking example of the Japanese traditional craft technique called Ittobori (一刀彫), meaning "One-Stroke Carving."

Ittobori Technique: It is characterized by bold, powerful strokes of the chisel, where the carver's dynamic energy is left visible on the surface, creating a unique texture and sense of movement.

Material: It is meticulously carved from a single, seamless one-piece block of precious Yew wood (イチイの木). The wood's deep, rich color and exceptional grain give the mask a breathtakingly lifelike presence and warmth.

The Story of Hannya
The Hannya mask represents a woman who has been utterly consumed by jealousy and resentment, transforming her into a fierce demon or female ogre. While terrifying, the mask is also deeply moving, as it captures the underlying pain and sorrow of human suffering, giving profound emotional depth to the Noh plays.

A Must-Have for Collectors and Enthusiasts
This piece is more than just a mask; it is a soulful work of art embodying the spirit of Japanese tradition and master craftsmanship. The dramatic form and natural beauty of the wood grain are captivating.

Ideal for both collectors of Japanese fine arts and enthusiasts of unique, statement-making decor. Display it in a modern setting to instantly introduce an exotic, sophisticated, and dramatic Japanese aesthetic to your space.

Details

Era
1900-2000
Wood type
Yew
Specific region of origin
岐阜飛騨高山
Material
Wood
Country of Origin
Japan
Condition
Good condition - used with small signs of aging & blemishes
Designer/Artist/Maker
Nakamura Ikkoku, 中村一刻
Height
24.5 cm
Width
18 cm
Estimated Period
1950-1960, 1970-1980, 1980-1990
JapanVerified
16
Objects sold
Private

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