Hannya Noh Mask
Returned to lender
This work of art was on loan to the museum and has since been returned to its lender.In the second part of the play titled Lady Aoi (Aoi no Ue) by Zeami, based on Chapter 9, “Leaves of Wild Ginger” (Aoi), a mountain monk is summoned to perform a ritual to exorcise the vengeful spirit of Lady Rokujō. The jealousy in her heart is embodied as a female ogre, played by a Noh actor wearing a hannya mask, representing a female serpent-demon. A battle rages between the monk and the demon. Eventually, a Buddhist scripture reaches the lady’s heart, and her ogre aspect is calmed.
The hannya mask has an open mouth, strong jaw, sharp teeth, golden eyes, and two horns. Its expression is simultaneously demonic, angry, frightening, tormented, and sorrowful.
The hannya mask has an open mouth, strong jaw, sharp teeth, golden eyes, and two horns. Its expression is simultaneously demonic, angry, frightening, tormented, and sorrowful.
Artwork Details
- 友閑満庸作 能面 『般若』
- Title: Hannya Noh Mask
- Artist: Yūkan Mitsuyasu (Japanese, 1577–1652)
- Period: Edo period (1615–1868)
- Date: first half of the 17th century
- Culture: Japan
- Medium: Wood, gesso, polychrome pigments, and brass and gold accents
- Dimensions: H. 8 1/2 × W. 7 × D. 4 1/2 in. (21.6 × 17.8 × 11.4 cm)
- Classification: Masks
- Credit Line: Lent by Stephen Marvin
- Curatorial Department: Asian Art