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Carved wooden mask depicting a stylized human face, with a high, rounded forehead and exaggeratedly expressive features. The whole is decorated with plant motifs in relief, accentuating the contours of the face. Significant signs of wear, revealing the raw wood beneath the old black pictorial layer. The eyes are pierced, typical of theatrical masks allowing the actor to see the stage. The overall appearance evokes a male figure, potentially a deity or supernatural character from the Noh repertoire.
The masks of Japanese Noh theater, which appeared in the 14th century, embody precise archetypes: old men, warriors, women, demons or spirits. Each mask is charged with strong symbolism and a subtle expressive code, using minute details to express multiple emotions depending on the angle and light.
Ref: MAWP0V4SK3