Masterfully Carved Japanese Noh Mask "Shakumi" by Kojitsu - Middle-Aged Woman
Description
Masterfully Carved Japanese Noh Mask "Shakumi" by Kojitsu - Middle-Aged Woman
This is an exceptional, hand-carved, and painted Japanese Noh Mask representing the "Shakumi" (曲見) character. This mask was created by the skilled mask-maker Kojitsu and is a "Komen-utsushi"—a faithful recreation of a historical ancient masterpiece.
The "Shakumi" Character: The Shakumi mask portrays a middle-aged woman, often a mother, capturing a delicate balance of maturity, quiet sorrow, and hidden strength. The name "Shakumi" refers to the slightly concave or "scooped" profile of the mask, which allows the actor to create profound emotional shifts through subtle tilts of the head.
Key Features:
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Artist Signed: The back of the mask bears the carved signature of the artist, Kojitsu, certifying its professional craftsmanship.
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Exquisite Artistry: Features the iconic blackened teeth (Ohaguro) and faint red lips, with meticulously painted hair strands and expressive, high-set eyebrows.
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Intricate Woodwork: Masterfully hollowed from a single block of wood, evidenced by its remarkably light weight of just 132g, which is preferred by professional performers for comfort.
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Aged Aesthetic: Finished with a beautiful, antique-style patina to mimic the texture of legendary masks passed down through centuries.
Specifications:
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Height: 21.2 cm / 8.3 in
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Width: 14.0 cm / 5.5 in
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Depth: Approx. 7.0 cm / 2.8 in
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Weight: 132 g / 0.29 lbs
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Material: Wood (likely Hinoki/Japanese Cypress), Pigments
Condition: Excellent condition with a deliberate aged finish. The carving is sharp and the pigment remains vibrant. There are minor signs of handling consistent with a high-quality vintage ritual item. Please inspect the photos for the delicate "scooped" profile and the artist’s mark on the reverse.