Noh Theater Actor – Figurine By Seiju Kon, Japan, 1950.

Seiju Kon was active from the postwar period through the 1970s. Little is known about him. He began making kokeshi around 1949 and lived in Yamagata Prefecture. He won the national kokeshi doll competition in 1962. His pieces are often composed of several interlocking wooden parts, a technique that is atypical among kokeshi artisans. He is famous for his depiction of the “Noh Dancer,” whose mysterious and serene appearance he captured. This is the “Nomen” (a Noh actor wearing a mask). “Noh theater,” along with Kabuki, represents centuries-old artistic traditions. Originating from 14th-century religious festivals, “Noh” is based on traditional tales with supernatural elements. The characters change form through the use of masks. The artist draws inspiration from the “ko Omote” mask—this mask depicts a young woman with full, round cheeks, calm and contemplative, idealizing the beauty and innocence of youth. It is worth noting that only male performers were used in Noh theater.
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