石王尉（いしおうじょう / Ishiōjō） is one of Noh’s classic jōmen: an old deity or tree spirit taking the modest form of an elder. With its deep-set eyes and measured severity, this Ishiōjō Noh mask carries the quiet authority of a kami who has ripened into age rather than weakened by it. Used for old gods and venerable tree spirits in plays such as Saigyōzakura and Yugyōyanagi, Ishiōjō stands at the boundary between human frailty and divine protection. The narrow, sunken eyes and tightened mouth give a slightly “bitter” dignity that shifts from stern to compassionate with small changes in angle and light. Carved in wood, fitted with a long planted beard and stamped on the back with an artisan’s seal in traditional seal script, this later hand-carved example preserves the life-size presence and wearable proportions of a traditional Japanese Noh mask old man type. Character: 石王尉（いしおうじょう / Ishiōjō） Maker: Unknown (with undeciphered artisan seal) Era / date (estimate): Shōwa/Heisei Period Material: Wood Dimensions: approx. 21 × 15.5 × 10 cm (H × W × D); beard length approx. 50 cm Weight: approx. 279 g Accessories: Mask and mask bag (2 items) Condition: Good (see photos for surface details) Seen up close, the mask works slowly: the longer you look, the more the face moves between austerity and muted compassion, like a fixed point around which your own perception shifts. Securely packaged and shipment is always insured for safe delivery.