Returned to lender The Met accepts temporary loans of art both for short-term exhibitions and for long-term display in its galleries.
Deigan Noh Mask
Not on view
The Noh play Lady Aoi (Aoi no Ue) by Zeami is based on Chapter 9, “Leaves of Wild Ginger” (Aoi). Lady Aoi, Genji’s first wife, is possessed by a spirit during childbirth and becomes seriously ill. The culprit appears to be the vengeful spirit of Genji’s neglected former lover, Lady Rokujō, humiliated by Aoi during the “battle of the carriages” scene. Lady Rokujō first appears on stage seeking retribution, wearing the deigan (“gilded” or “golden eyes”) mask. The mask represents a mature woman who carries within her the seeds of supernatural transformation, while simultaneously signaling a demonic spirit that will soon manifest. The large, prominent forehead and gilded eyes are its most distinctive features.
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