A Miniature Hand Carved Mask #4: Old Man

early twentieth century
2 3/4" x 1 3/4" x 1", 7 cm x 4.5 cm x 2.5 cm

This is a miniature, hand carved, hand painted wooden mask based on a Noh or Kyogen mask which was used in traditional Japanese theater.

This mask depicts a ko-jo, or an old man, who is a character often depicted in Noh drama.

Carved of lightweight wood, this small mask is delightful in its presence and in its detail--hard to see are the delicate tufts of hair that adorn his eyebrows.

Charming.