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16 views

Mask (1)

Uploaded by

suf33842
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
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Download as PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
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Mask 1: Japanese Noh Mask - Hannya

Nations, Areas, Society and Era

Hannya is a Japanese mask used in Noh theater, which dates back to the Muromachi period
(1336–1573), as one of the six main types of Japanese masks. One of the cultural
developments of this time was Noh theater, which combined art, music and drama into an
elegant storytelling tradition. The Hannya mask, which is one of the most renowned masks
used in these forms of performance and embodies an essential aspect of Japan's theatrical
history.
How was the Mask Created - Each Mask Is Handpainted Together with a Little Red

Hannya masks are traditionally carved in Japanese CYPRESS wood Natural pigments, gold
leaf and lacquer are used by artists to animate the dramatic and terrifying characteristics of
the mask. While still being durable, it is light-weight wood making it comfortable to wear for
long performances.

Purpose of the Mask

The Hannya mask represents the demonic spirit of a woman who is both jealous and wants
to be loved. The mask is for women who are possessed with extreme feelings of anger or
extreme love, and are emotionally shattered. In Noh plays, it has the power to depict the
tragedy of a woman’s instigation to evil’s destructive appeal, hence it is one of the most
notable symbols of tragic anger, hatred, and pain.

Why the Mask is Important or Famous

This mask is known for its originality and emotional impact. It is meant to depict rage and
despair, hence there is a contradiction in its expression. The mask illustrates the intricacies
of human emotions by attempting to appear both angry and sad, depending on the
perspective from which it is viewed. The Hannya mask continues to be very characteristic of
the country and its culture, and the mask is often seen in contemporary art works, tattoos,
and even in the current mass media.

Is the Hannya Mask Rare or Common?

Since all Hannya masks are made and carved completely by hand, it makes them quite rare
since it incorporates art. Just because some masks are created for performers does not
mean that they are all the same since the carving is always dependent on the artisan who is
portraying the emotion of the character.

Why I Chose This Mask

Among the many masks, I settled on a Hannya because I loved how intricate and detailed
the mask appeared. It is interesting also how it takes emotion and captures it in a different
way in art. I also liked the fact that it is related to Japanese culture and the stories behind it.
Mask 2: Chinese Opera Mask

Country, Region, Culture, and Time Period

Most Chinese Opera masks are also Chinese in origin, since they are mainly used in Peking
Opera which started from the 18th Century during the Qing dynasty. Peking opera is a
unique cultural practice that includes singing, dancing as well as acrobatics into one perfect
artistic performance. Masks are important parts of the performance since they perform the
imagery and the functions of the characters.

Materials Used to Make the Mask


Traditional Chinese opera masks are often painted directly onto performers' faces using
grease paint. However, in some cases, masks are created with paper-mâché or wood and
decorated with vivid paints, silk threads, and even sequins to create a vibrant and striking
appearance.

Purpose of the Mask


The purpose of these masks is to symbolize the traits and roles of the characters. Each
color and pattern on the mask has a specific meaning:

○ Red represents loyalty and bravery.


○ Black symbolizes integrity and strength.
○ White conveys cunning or treachery.
These symbolic meanings help the audience quickly understand a character's
personality and role in the story.

Why the Mask is Important or Famous

In Chinese opera you will see masks. The actors move a lot. The masks add to the
movements. They show stories and are very Chinese. Other countries have opera. But
Chinese opera masks are special to China.

Is the Mask Rare or Common?

There is no doubt that opera masks are widely used during performances; however, it's
worth mentioning that the masks are custom-made for specific characters and stories.
Always admiring heroic figures, without a doubt, the great Guan Yu's mask is famous for
having a red face which can be recognized by people even in scenarios far removed from
the opera.

Why I Chose This Mask

Out of the different kinds of masks, I selected the Chinese opera masks because they are
appealing to the eyes with their bright colors and designs. What caught my interest is the
fact that each mask has a history depicted on its structure and the meaning of the mask
which has to do with the intricate details of Chinese culture.

Conclusion

Hannya masks and Chinese opera masks tell stories using emotions and traits. Hannya
masks show sadness and anger with severe feelings. Chinese opera masks have bright
colors for traits. Each mask has art expressing things for their cultures. These masks are
chosen due to being unique, making one curious and creative about fascinating stories
behind them.

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