Mikazuki (male deity) Noh mask
16th century
Medium
Japanese cypress, colors, and brass
Classification
wood
Department
Arts of Asia
Museum
Art Institute of Chicago
Accession Number
22595
Rights
Public Domain
About this artwork
Mikazuki masks were used by actors portraying vengeful spirits in need of appeasement. The masks’ characteristic features include an ocher complexion, a wide mustache, and eyes fashioned with gilded brass rings, with the whites painted red. The wide eyes and bared teeth give the mask a frightening expression, and the glint of light off the eyes during a performance must have added to its terror.
About the Artist
Unknown
The artist designated as "Unknown" in our virtual museum's collection exemplifies a poignant chapter in art history: creators whose identities have faded into obscurity despite the enduring power of their work. With only one known artwork attributed to them in our holdings, this figure represents countless anonymous hands that shaped visual culture across centuries. Museums worldwide, including th...