The Masks of Japan: Gods and Demons in Noh and Kyogen
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Noh Mask, Obeshimi type, With the carved inscription "By Itto of Kuji on Sadogashima", Muromachi period, 15th century (Lent by Agency for Cultural Affairs)
Japanese Gallery (Honkan) Room 14
March 20, 2018 (Tue) - April 22, 2018 (Sun)Noh and Kyogen have been performed for centuries in Japan, with Kyogen plays serving as comic interludes in between acts of Noh. These performing arts feature not only human characters, but also supernatural figures such as gods and demons. When playing these roles, actors wear distinctive masks that are of central importance to the performances and aid the audience in using their imaginations to flesh out the stories portrayed.