Lot 346
A Wood Noh Mask of Hannya, Edo Period, 17th-18th Century
Lot 346 Details
A Wood Noh Mask of Hannya, Edo Period, 17th-18th Century
江戸時代（17-18世紀）能面・般若
The ghostly demonic mask carved in wood and painted in polychrome pigments over gesso, the eyes and teeth highlighted in gilt
10.6 x 6.1 in — 27 x 15.5 cm
Estimate $600-$800
Additional Images
Note:
Noh masks have been central to Japanese religious rituals, festivals and classical theatre, embodying historical figures and spiritual beings known as kami, rooted in Japan’s indigenous beliefs. Among the most powerful is the hannya, representing a woman transformed into a vengeful demon by jealousy and rage. Characterised by sharp horns, metallic eyes and a leering mouth, the hannya mask conveys a striking range of emotion, from sorrowful anguish to intense fury. Traditionally, such masks were believed to enable spiritual possession, transforming the wearer into the kami or its human incarnation.
Compare with examples from Bonhams New York, March 16, 2016, lot 3128, price realised 2,250 USD; and Bonhams London, November 6, 2012, lot 378, price realised 2,250 GBP
https://www.bonhams.com/auction/23338/lot/3128/a-mask-for-the-noh-drama-hannya-female-demon-edo-period-1615-1868-early-19th-century/
https://www.bonhams.com/auction/20023/lot/378/a-wood-noh-mask-of-hannya-attributed-to-muko-seiun-i-1867-1944-20th-century/