Decorative Noh theater mask Demon Hannya fixed on wooden plaque with artist's signature

Superb traditional decorative nô theater mask representing a Hannya demon fixed on a varnished wooden plate, made in Japan. The term 'Hannya' means 'wisdom' in Sanskrit, but also refers to a youkai (= Japanese demon), originating from Japanese myths, in which an angry young woman is consumed by destructive jealousy. Overwhelmed by her own jealousy and anger, the woman transforms into a tormented and vengeful ghost, her face deformed and provided with horns and sharp teeth. The Hannya mask is very often used in Japanese Noh theatre. The mask comes in several colors, including white as a sign of aristocratic distinction. In the Nô theatre, the actors in costume play with the inclination of the mask to express different facets of the character and bring out the duality of his expression. Downward, the face seems overwhelmed with sadness while, facing the audience, the mask exudes a terrorizing wrathful emotion. On the other hand, Oni are used as talismans to ward off evil spirits and bring good luck. Although Hannya is an evil demon, it would defend whoever wears it. DETAILS Dimensions: Length of the wooden plate: 27 cm // 10.63 inches Width of the wooden plate: 20.50 cm // 8.08 inches Thickness of the wooden plate: 0.50 cm // 0.2 inches Mask length: 21 cm // 8.27 inches Mask width: 15.50 cm // 6.11 inches Mask height (including horns): 8 cm // 3.15 inches Materials: ceramic, varnished wood, paint