Atsuita (Noh costume), Design of clematis arabesques on a red and white checkered ground, Edo period, 18th century
Japanese Gallery (Honkan) Room 9
June 19, 2018 (Tue) - August 19, 2018 (Sun)
The Noh play Benkei on the Bridge is based on the legendary encounter between the young warrior Ushiwaka and the fighting monk Benkei. As the title suggests, this encounter takes place on a bridge, and ensues in a duel in which Benkei is subdued. In the first act, the actor portraying Benkei wears a beshimi mask, characterized by its strong, rough-hewn features, together with a mizugoromo robe and a kakuboshi cap. This costume is typical for monk characters in Noh theater. In act two, Benkei wears a happi garment, which represents armor. Ushiwaka appears for the first time in this act, and wears a beautiful furisode robe with long sleeves, which serves to reflect his young age. These costumes contrast the vigor of Benkei with the elegance of Ushiwaka.
Current exhibit includes:
Happi (Noh costume), Design of clouds and dharma wheels on a dark blue ground, Edo period, 19th century (Lent by the Agency for Cultural Affairs)
Hangire (Noh costume), Design of undulating stripes, tomoe comma shapes, and hammer wheels on a red ground, Edo period, 18th century
Atsuita (Noh costume), Design of clematis arabesques on a red and white checkered ground, Edo period, 18th century