19th Century Japanese Carved Wood Noh Mask of Ko Omote

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Directory: Archives: Regional Art: Asian: Japanese: Pre 1900: Item # 1167636

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Showing Online and in The Antique Center at Historic Savage Mill, Maryland
Based out of Frederick, Maryland


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A good 19th century carved and lacquered wood Noh mask representing the character role of Ko Omote (young woman). The well oxidized wood visible on the inside of the mask exhibiting the knife strokes of the anonymous artist. Generally good condition and the lacquer strong and stable. In the interest of full and detailed disclosure: Some natural age checking of the wood on the figure's left side also conveying to the lacquered surface on the face. Similar age cracks in the lacquer on either side of the figure's nose, where the wood is thicker, not showing any checking to the wood at that point from the inside. Light lacquer loss under the lower lip, near each nostril and the top edge where the hair meets the rim. Some rubbing to the black lacquer where the later silk cords are now strung. The lacquered surface could stand for a light, professional cleaning (though not necessary) of some points such as nose tip, forehead and chin but care should be taken not to disturb patina. Height, 8 3/8 inches (21.28 cm). Width 5 3/8 inches (13.65 cm).