Masterpieces of Early Modern Noh Masks: The “Tenkaichi” Mask Makers
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Noh Mask: Heita, With branded mark “Tenkaichi Zekan”, Azuchi-Momoyama－Edo period, 16th－17th century
Japanese Gallery (Honkan) Room 14
January 2, 2023 (Mon) - February 26, 2023 (Sun)Noh theater is a traditional Japanese performing art. It attained its completed form during the Muromachi period (1392–1573), with many new Noh masks produced during this time. Noh became a cherished pastime of the warrior class and this led to soaring demand for copies of famous masks. From 1593 to 1682, the most accomplished replica makers were awarded the name “Tenkaichi.” Their copies would perfectly replicate the originals, from the facial features and inner carving to the maker’s branded seal and any cracks and blemishes. Despite this fidelity, the individuality of these replica masters still shines through in these works.
| Designation | Name | Creation/ Excavation/ Provenance |
Period | Acquisition/ Ownership/ Accession Number |
CMT | ||
| Highlight | Important Cultural Property | Noh Mask: Ko'omote | With branded mark “Tenkaichi Kawachi”, Formerly owned by the Konparu troupe | Edo period, 17th century | C-1551 | ||
| Highlight | Kyōgen Mask: Buaku | With carved inscription “Tenkaichi Suminobō” | Azuchi-Momoyama period, 16th century | C-86 | |||
| Highlight | Noh Mask: Heita | With branded mark “Tenkaichi Zekan” | Azuchi-Momoyama－Edo period, 16th－17th century | C-125 | |||
| Highlight | Noh Mask: Zō'onna | With branded mark “Tenkaichi Yamato” | Edo period, 17th century | Lent by Agency for Cultural Affairs | |||
| Highlight | Noh Mask: Kagekiyo | With branded mark “Tenkaichi Ōmi" | Edo Period, 17th century | C-69 |