Artwork Page for Gigaku Mask of Young Persian Boy (Taikōji)

Details / Information for Gigaku Mask of Young Persian Boy (Taikōji)

Gigaku Mask of Young Persian Boy (Taikōji)

伎楽面・太孤児

710–94

Japan, Nara period

(710–94)
Medium
paulownia wood, lacquered and painted
Measurements
Overall: 28 x 21 x 18.5 cm (11 x 8 1/4 x 7 5/16 in.)
Credit Line
John L. Severance Fund 1949.158
Public Domain
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Location
Not on view
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Did You Know?

This is the mask for one of two sons who accompany a widower in ancient dance theater.

Description

This mask is for the role of the son of an old Persian widower in gigaku, a theatrical dance repertoire imported to Japan from continental Asia during the seventh century. The old man and his sons mime prayers to the Buddha. While the mask would cover the entire head of the actor, there are openings for the eyes, nostrils, and mouth.
A painted wood mask depicts a smiling face. The surface of the mask is chipped, leaving a mottled mix of black, reddish-brown, and gray.

Gigaku Mask of Young Persian Boy (Taikōji)

710–94

Japan, Nara period (710–94)

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