Netsuke of Mask for the Noh Play Okina 1825 - 1875

This netsuke, carved by Ishimine, captures the mask worn for the Noh play Okina. The Okina mask represents an old man, a divine figure who performs a sacred dance to ensure peace and prosperity. Notice the detailed carving of the mask, including the small, round protrusions along the forehead and jawline. These protrusions are not mere decoration. They are symbolic of the spirit residing within the mask, a tangible representation of the divine. This motif echoes in various cultures across time. Think of the grotesque masks worn in ancient Greek theatre. Or even the ritualistic masks of African tribes, each one a conduit for ancestral spirits. The Okina mask, like these others, serves as a bridge between the human and the divine. It evokes a sense of awe and reverence. This netsuke reminds us that these cultural symbols transcend their original contexts. They continue to resonate with our collective subconscious, resurfacing in new forms, echoing through history, and carrying their ancient power into the present.