Japanese - Tsuba with Three Noh Masks - Walters 51277 - Back

This tsuba depicts three masks and a fan used in traditional Japanese performing arts. The mask in the upper portion of the tsuba is the "hannya" mask used by noh actors portraying vengeful women. A fan is shown near this mask. The lower mask is a "buaku" mask, which was used in comic kyogen plays for demons or minor deities who are not as intimidating or powerful as they may seem. On the reverse is an "usobuki" mask. This mask is also used in kyogen plays for both human and spirit characters.