No. 103838080

Sold
Bronze - 非常に上質な能楽の舞踊像をかたどる置物(鬼/精霊の像、般若と式神のモチーフ) - Shōwa period (1926-1989)
Final bid
€ 130
11 weeks ago

Bronze - 非常に上質な能楽の舞踊像をかたどる置物(鬼/精霊の像、般若と式神のモチーフ) - Shōwa period (1926-1989)

This is a striking Japanese bronze sculpture inspired by the world of traditional Noh theater (能). The figure is depicted in a powerful, almost static stance, wearing flowing robes and holding ritual objects. The face, partially concealed beneath long hair, reveals an intense, fierce expression, strongly evoking the supernatural characters that appear in Noh drama. Possible Noh References While the exact play cannot be definitively identified, the sculpture closely resembles archetypal roles found in Noh: Demonic or vengeful female spirits (e.g., Hannya) Associated with jealousy, transformation, and emotional intensity. Supernatural warrior spirits (e.g., Shikami-type masks) Representing rage, lingering attachment, and spiritual unrest. Ghostly figures (Yūrei / Onryō) Souls unable to pass on, often portrayed with solemn stillness and hidden power. The covered face and exaggerated expression suggest a moment of transformation — a key theme in Noh, where human emotion evolves into something otherworldly. Artistic Interpretation Rather than depicting a single named character, this piece captures the essence of Noh aesthetics: Stillness and tension Spiritual presence rather than physical motion The boundary between human and supernatural The textured bronze surface and aged patina enhance the dramatic atmosphere, giving the piece a timeless and almost ritualistic presence. The artist's mark is on the bottom back, but it was illegible. This is not merely a decorative object, but a sculptural interpretation of one of Japan’s most refined performing arts traditions. For collectors of Japanese art, theater, or spiritual motifs, this piece offers both visual impact and cultural depth. Hight: 40.0 cm Width: 22.2 cm Depth: 22.8 cm Weight: 8210 g Condition: The overall condition is generally good. There may be some deterioration such as dirt, scratches, dullness, and rubbing due to aging. It was stored at home. There are also many photos, so please take a look. Atention: The items listed for sale are all used collectibles. Please consider them to have signs of aging, such as stains, scratches, scuffs, tears, discoloration, fading, fraying, and changes in thread color. We will post as many photos as possible to make it easy to understand. As these are old items, we appreciate your understanding before making a purchase. Shipping: The lot will be carefully packaged and shipped from Japan. We will use either DHL or FedEx for a safe and secure transportation. It usually takes about 2-3 weeks for delivery, and the package will be shipped with a tracking number. Import duties, taxes, VAT, and any other charges are not included in the item price and shipping cost. Please check your country's import duties before bidding. 041721110426

No. 103838080

Sold
Bronze - 非常に上質な能楽の舞踊像をかたどる置物(鬼/精霊の像、般若と式神のモチーフ) - Shōwa period (1926-1989)

Bronze - 非常に上質な能楽の舞踊像をかたどる置物(鬼/精霊の像、般若と式神のモチーフ) - Shōwa period (1926-1989)

This is a striking Japanese bronze sculpture inspired by the world of traditional Noh theater (能).

The figure is depicted in a powerful, almost static stance, wearing flowing robes and holding ritual objects. The face, partially concealed beneath long hair, reveals an intense, fierce expression, strongly evoking the supernatural characters that appear in Noh drama.

Possible Noh References
While the exact play cannot be definitively identified, the sculpture closely resembles archetypal roles found in Noh:

Demonic or vengeful female spirits (e.g., Hannya)
Associated with jealousy, transformation, and emotional intensity.
Supernatural warrior spirits (e.g., Shikami-type masks)
Representing rage, lingering attachment, and spiritual unrest.
Ghostly figures (Yūrei / Onryō)
Souls unable to pass on, often portrayed with solemn stillness and hidden power.

The covered face and exaggerated expression suggest a moment of transformation — a key theme in Noh, where human emotion evolves into something otherworldly.

Artistic Interpretation
Rather than depicting a single named character, this piece captures the essence of Noh aesthetics:

Stillness and tension
Spiritual presence rather than physical motion
The boundary between human and supernatural

The textured bronze surface and aged patina enhance the dramatic atmosphere, giving the piece a timeless and almost ritualistic presence.
The artist's mark is on the bottom back, but it was illegible.

This is not merely a decorative object, but a sculptural interpretation of one of Japan’s most refined performing arts traditions.
For collectors of Japanese art, theater, or spiritual motifs, this piece offers both visual impact and cultural depth.

Hight: 40.0 cm
Width: 22.2 cm
Depth: 22.8 cm
Weight: 8210 g

Condition:
The overall condition is generally good. There may be some deterioration such as dirt, scratches, dullness, and rubbing due to aging. It was stored at home. There are also many photos, so please take a look.

Atention:
The items listed for sale are all used collectibles. Please consider them to have signs of aging, such as stains, scratches, scuffs, tears, discoloration, fading, fraying, and changes in thread color. We will post as many photos as possible to make it easy to understand. As these are old items, we appreciate your understanding before making a purchase.

Shipping:
The lot will be carefully packaged and shipped from Japan.
We will use either DHL or FedEx for a safe and secure transportation. It usually takes about 2-3 weeks for delivery, and the package will be shipped with a tracking number.
Import duties, taxes, VAT, and any other charges are not included in the item price and shipping cost. Please check your country's import duties before bidding.

041721110426

Final bid
€ 130
Sandra Wong
Expert
Estimate € 150 - € 200

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