A Miniature Hand Carved Mask #3: Demon

early twentieth century
4" x 2 1/2" x 1 1/4", 10 cm x 6.5 cm x 3 cm

This is a miniature, hand carved, hand painted wooden mask based on a Noh or Kyogen mask which was used in traditional Japanese theater.

This mask depicts an oni, or demon who chases away evil, which plays a important role in Noh drama.

Carved of lightweight wood, this small mask is delightful in its presence and in its detail--and in its fearsome grimace.

Charming.