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The Noh and Kyōgen Masks of Kasuga Shrine in Seki

  • Image of "Noh Mask: Jō (Waraijō), Muromachi period, 15th century (Kasuga Shrine, Gifu, Important Cultural Property)"

    Noh Mask: (Waraijō), Muromachi period, 15th century (Kasuga Shrine, Gifu, Important Cultural Property)

    Japanese Gallery (Honkan) Room 14
    July 20, 2021 (Tue) - September 26, 2021 (Sun)

    Seki in Gifu Prefecture was a thriving hub of swordsmiths from ancient times. Seki’s Kasuga Shrine served as the tutelary shrine for these artisans. This display features Noh masks, Kyōgen masks and other masks passed down through the shrine’s long history.

    The masks are all masterpieces, though Noh Mask: Jō (Waraijō) is particularly worthy of note. The style of Noh masks was formalized from early modern times, with masks subsequently produced according to fixed templates. The Waraijō mask is different, though, with a striking originality clearly apparent in the soft lips, the vivid expressions, and the way the teeth have been carved out one by one.

 Major works in this exhibition
* Works listed below are in the TNM Collection unless otherwise indicated.
 Major works in this exhibition
* Works listed below are in the TNM Collection unless otherwise indicated.
Noh Mask: (Waraijō), Muromachi period, 15th century (Kasuga Shrine, Gifu, Important Cultural Property)
Noh Mask: Otoko (Wakaotoko), Muromachi period, 15th century (Kasuga Shrine, Gifu, Important Cultural Property, On exhibit from September 7, 2021)
Noh Mask: Ryō-no-otoko (Ayakashi), By Kitashin Jirō , Muromachi period, 15th–16th century (Kasuga Shrine, Gifu, Important Cultural Property, On exhibit from September 7, 2021)
Noh Mask: Ryō-no-otoko, By Deme Mitsuteru , Muromachi period, 16th century(Kasuga Shrine, Gifu, Important Cultural Property, On exhibit from September 7, 2021)
Kyōgen Mask: Oto, Muromachi period, 15th–16th century (Kasuga Shrine, Gifu, Important Cultural Property)
 

Pamphlet

The Noh and Kyōgen Masks of Kasuga Shrine in Seki
The Noh and Kyōgen Masks of Kasuga Shrine in Seki


This pamphlet is also available at the information desk in the Honkan during the thematic exhibition period.

PDF 9.5MB)