Japanese Lacquered Wooden Theater Mask, Taishō Period – Early Showa Period

Spectacular Japanese theater mask carved from wood and lacquered, dating from the Taisho era—early

Showa era, in the early 20th century.

This remarkable mask features an extraordinarily expressive face with deliberately exaggerated features: a long, prominent nose; bulging eyes accented with antique gilding; a slightly parted mouth revealing finely carved teeth, all brought to life by a powerful expression that is both unsettling and theatrical.

The reddish-brown lacquer, subtly nuanced with black highlights, has acquired over time a beautiful patina of age that enhances the character of the piece.

On the reverse side, an old handwritten label in Japanese remains, identifying the mask as Taishötoku (*715), a model inspired by a traditional type of Japanese ceremonial theater, generally associated with the Bugaku repertoire, and referring to an exemplar preserved among Japan’s most prestigious historical models.

The mask is hollowed out according to tradition and retains its cord-fastening system. It is in particularly good condition, with normal wear on the lacquer that attests to its age.

With its striking expression, beautiful carving, and generous dimensions, it is a remarkable collector’s item, as well as a superb decorative piece for a cabinet of curiosities or an interior inspired by Far Eastern arts.

Dimensions:

• Height: 28 cm
• Width: 20 cm
• Depth: 20 cm

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