Man Making Noh Masks

Created in the 20th century, this watercolor’s subject matter places it within the longstanding tradition of Japanese Noh Theater. Noh is the oldest performance art form in Japan, with origins in the 14th century. The carefully carved masks worn by Noh performers are of utmost importance in conveying meaning, creating mood, and telling a story. By extension, the artists responsible for carving Noh masks are essential to the spirit of the art form. These wooden masks are carved to be highly expressive and exaggerated, conveying a complex meaning to the audience. This Noh artist gazes down at his work in progress, almost as if he is in conversation with the face.