A series of five artworks: Breathtaking Masks One, Koomote, a Young Woman

This Koomote mask reflects a young woman, the word Koomote means cuteness, youth, and beauty. Koomote is made to be rather “expressionless”, so it is up to viewers to read their true emotions hidden under this mask.

Noh is a form of Japanese theater involving music, dance, and drama originating in the 14th century, 200 years before Kabuki.

One key element of Noh are the masks which the actor wears. They tell the audience what kind of character is being portrayed. Frequently used masks represent demons and spirits, as well as women and men of various ages. The masks are carved from blocks of Japanese cypress. Their properties allows skilled actors to induce a variety of expressions with changes in head angles.