Mask - Hout - Late Edo periode - Usobuki Hyottoko Noh-maska

This is a wooden Usobuki (空吹)　/ Hyottoko（火男） mask carved during the late Edo period. It is a rare antique mask believed to have been used in actual performances of Sato-kagura or Machi-kagura during that era. (The precursors to Noh theatre)
It is made from very light wood (which appears to be paulownia). As the mask was actually worn, it bears charming aged scratches and scuffs.
Please refer to the photographs for the condition.

Height: approx. 21 cm
Width: approx. 14.2 cm
Weight: 19.4 g

Trivia about the Hyottoko mask
The design of the Hyottoko mask itself derives from masks such as the ‘Kuro-no-jo’ used in Sarugaku and other traditional performing arts. Masks of this type are known as ‘Usobuki’ and are characterised by round eyes and a pointed, protruding mouth. It is believed that the prototype of the Hyottoko mask, as seen today, began to take shape during the Muromachi period, and that it became widespread during the Edo period through village and town kagura performances.

- Shipping: All items will be shipped from Japan via Japan Post EMS (airmail) or International Air Packet.

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