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Noh chanter, from a collaborative album of 11 pages

Japanese

Artwork Details

Noh chanter, from a collaborative album of 11 pages
circa 1923
Japanese
album leaf, ink and light color on paper
10 5/8 in x 14 1/16 in (27 cm x 35.8 cm);10 5/8 in x 7 1/16 in x 11/16 in (27 cm x 18 cm x 1.8 cm)
Gift of Dr. and Mrs. J. Robert Willson
1982/2.7.10

Description

Subject Matter:

This appears to be a live sketch of a Noh performer during a performance. The tree behind the individual is typical of the Noh set and the performer has their mouth open in recitation. Noh performers typically wear heavy makeup as signified by the lined lips in this depiction. Noh performance paintings are not uncommon as the performance art is highly respected and visually appealing. 

Physical Description:

This is a painting in black ink depicting a single figure in the middle. The figure appears to be a Noh performer wearing Noh performance clothing and sitting in front of sliding doors with trees painted on them (the set). The Noh performer sits behind what appears to be a reading stand and has their mouth open to give the impression of recitation. There is a signature on the right lower side of the figure and has two red stamps. On the opposite side of the individual is a cup. 

Usage Rights:

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