Netsuke of Noh Mask: One-Eyed Hyottoko
Unknown Artist
19th century
Medium
Wood
Dimensions
H. 2 in. (5.1 cm); W. 1 5/8 in. (4.1 cm); D. 3/4 in. (1.9 cm)
Classification
Netsuke
Culture & Period
Japan · Edo (1615–1868) or Meiji period (1868–1912)
Department
Asian Art
Museum
Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, NY
Credit
Edward C. Moore Collection, Bequest of Edward C. Moore, 1891
Accession Number
91.1.1059
Tags
Art Historical Context
Nestled in the Metropolitan Museum of Art's Asian Art collection, this exquisite wooden netsuke depicts a Noh mask of the one-eyed Hyott, a whimsical character from Japanese folklore and theater. Carved in the 19th century Japan's Edo (1615–1868) or Meiji (1868–1912) period, the sculpture measures just 2 inches high, showcasing the artist's mastery of miniature wood carving. Its compact form—complete with a single bulging eye, crooked mouth, and textured hair—captures the exaggerated expressiveness of traditional Noh masks, evoking both humor and theatrical drama. Netsuke originated as practi...