These three pictures are of the same Noh mask. It’s carved from wood and has no moving parts, yet just by tipping his head, the actor can change his character’s expression.
Ignorant foreigner that I am, I have to admit that Noh drama is really hard to watch. The language is ancient and arcane, the movements so stylized you need to know which flick of the fan means it’s a saké cup and which changes it into a sword, and the actors (never actresses) glide across the stage wearing masks and extravagant robes that are about as far from natural as you can get.
And yet…if you watch carefully, you can see that the actors are really skillful at making a tiny gesture or tilt of the chin go a long way. The artists who carved the masks were masters of human anatomy, giving a slight sharpening of the cheekbone to indicate that the character is aging, making the eyehole “pupils” of young women square instead of round, rimming the eyes with gold to suggest the character has the glowing eyes of a spirit from another world.
And wearing these masks ain’t easy. I recently had a chance to try one on and was astounded at how blind the actors are when wearing them. Apparently, they have to use the posts at the corners of the Noh stage to orient themselves and count their steps so they know where they are. Also, to put one on properly, it takes about an hour of rearranging cotton between the actor’s face and the mask to get it in the right position. No wonder they have to start studying at the age of three!
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The Last Tea Bowl Thief was chosen as an Editor’s Pick for
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Jonelle Patrick writes novels set in Japan, produces the monthly e-magazine Japanagram, and blogs at Only In Japan and The Tokyo Guide I Wish I’d Had
Only In Japan 
I know I sound like a broken record, but this stuff is fascinating! Especially the part about how skillfully the masks are made and manipulated.
I’d read about this and been to some Noh performances, but it wasn’t until I saw a mask close up and watched the expression change as I tipped it, that I understood the range of emotion possible from a piece of carved wood. The next time I go to watch Noh, I’m going to appreciate it on a whole new level!
Fabulous mask! But Jonelle, how could you forget our unforgettable afternoon at the Noh?
I haven’t forgotten it at all! That performance is burned into my memory, but not because of the acting or the masks! You are the perpetual holder of the Culture Warrior Lifetime Achievement Award for sitting through nearly an entire Noh performance with a broken arm. On my way to the theatre on the day I tried on the mask, I actually walked right past The Scene Of The Crime.
Love this post. I am fascinated by masks. In an alternate universe I would study mask work and history for years and years.
I wish we could go see a Noh performance together! I’d love to hear your insights after watching an entire cast of masked actors perform.