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Mask ID help?

Discussion in 'Antique Discussion' started by Potteryplease, Dec 7, 2020.

  1. Potteryplease

    Potteryplease Well-Known Member

    Just found this mask at my local thrift shop. Looked a little different from others I've seen, and much heavier. The wood seems dense! The carved details seem 'sharp' which makes me wonder if it's a recent mask perhaps 'weathered' outdoors, but it could also be because of the wood. It's about 10" x 10" / 25cm x 25 cm.

    can anyone help steer me in the right direction as to country / culture / age?

    Thanks in advance! 23637700-DB62-425B-9A33-E70015937CDC.jpeg D0634266-4545-4E8F-B79C-235B38FDA209.jpeg 23209913-1D53-4D13-917E-AC3A0E7B2AB4.jpeg 49579A5B-F766-44FC-9424-A31194E25970.jpeg 33712071-AB18-42F6-90B7-2B0F8B6277BE.jpeg 1C7DDEE6-791C-44BA-8CE2-AA8D1AF7ABC2.jpeg
     
    Last edited: Dec 7, 2020
    stracci likes this.
  2. Van_Poperin

    Van_Poperin Well-Known Member

    I am a real layman regarding masks, but this mask has presence and I’m pleased to see that the interior isn’t sanded smooth. @komokwa?
     
  3. i need help

    i need help Moderator Moderator

    Noh- theatre mask
     
    Last edited: Dec 7, 2020
    stracci, blooey and Potteryplease like this.
  4. komokwa

    komokwa The Truth is out there...!

    i have my doubts that it's not just an Indonesian copy.......

    nomi8.JPG

    this is a true Japanese face..
     
  5. komokwa

    komokwa The Truth is out there...!

    Now , wait just a cotton picken minute there Lassy !! :happy::happy:

    A mask that is meant to be worn....should not be all rough and splintery inside..

    here's a 50 K authentic Noh nask....

    NohShakumiMask50K.jpg NohShakumiMask50K2.jpg
     
  6. Potteryplease

    Potteryplease Well-Known Member

    Is there any significance to the lack of holes in the eyes?
     
    Fid likes this.
  7. all_fakes

    all_fakes Well-Known Member

    Generally, a total lack of holes would indicate that a mask is intended for wall-hanging, as décor, rather than for use (unless it is a type of mask that is generally worn without eyeholes, as in some specific cultures). Here, the slits around the eyes would allow a wearer to see out....however:
    I'm a bit suspicious that this is a décor item, made in Indonesia; based on the type of wood used.
     
  8. Van_Poperin

    Van_Poperin Well-Known Member

    Good point! I didn’t think it’d be for wearing with those eyes, but if they usually are worn those splinters would be pretty intense! :(
     
    Potteryplease and komokwa like this.
  9. Taupou

    Taupou Well-Known Member

    My first impression was "decorative" wood carving from Indonesia, and reading the comments didn't change anything. (It looks like it's already spent some time weathering outdoors, perhaps on a patio or lanai wall.)
     
  10. komokwa

    komokwa The Truth is out there...!

    I think we're in agreement there..............;):meh::meh:
     
    Figtree3, Potteryplease and aaroncab like this.
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