The Masks and Costumes of the Noh Play Yamanba
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Karaori (Noh costume), Paired cranes in lozenge design on brown ground (detail), Edo period, 17th century
Japanese Gallery (Honkan) Room 9
August 9, 2016 (Tue) - October 10, 2016 (Mon)The play entitled Yamanba, which means “mountain hag,” is often performed at the end of a formal, day-long performance of Noh plays. As recited in this play, Yamanba has “disheveled hair like the snow, glittering eyes like the stars, and a red face, grim like a demon sculpture on a roof tile.” The actor portraying her dons a mask unique to this role, a white wig, and a garment often decorated with powerful geometric patterns including diamonds and diagonal lines resembling lightning. Yamanba is thus shown as a demon, yet the elegant dance that portrays her passing across the mountains and through the four seasons is a highlight of this Noh play.
Current exhibit includes:
Noh Mask, Shakumi type, By Yamato, Edo period, 17th century
Karaori (Noh costume), Paired cranes in lozenge design on brown ground, Edo period, 17th century