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Mask of Hanako (Ohta Hisa, 1868–1945)

Founder Cast by Alexis Rudier French
modeled 1908, cast probably before 1950
Not on view
This mask is part of a series in which Rodin sought to convey the intense expressivity of his model’s face. The actress known as Hanako performed westernized adaptations of Japanese Kabuki theater written by her agent, the famous American dancer Loie Fuller, under the pseudonym Loi-Fu. While the mask shows a peaceful countenance, the performances typically ended in bloody harakiri (ritual suicide) scenes, during which Hanako captivated audiences with her expressions of anguish.

Artwork Details

Object Information
  • Title: Mask of Hanako (Ohta Hisa, 1868–1945)
  • Artist: Auguste Rodin (French, Paris 1840–1917 Meudon)
  • Founder: Cast by Alexis Rudier (French)
  • Date: modeled 1908, cast probably before 1950
  • Culture: French
  • Medium: Bronze, black marble base
  • Dimensions: wt. on marble base, confirmed: 6 × 4 1/2 × 3 3/4 in., 2.9 lb. (15.2 × 11.4 × 9.5 cm, 1.3 kg)
    Height (with base): 8 1/4 in. (21 cm)
  • Classification: Sculpture-Bronze
  • Credit Line: Gift of Iris and B. Gerald Cantor Foundation, 1984
  • Object Number: 1984.364.4
  • Curatorial Department: European Sculpture and Decorative Arts

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