Boxwood netsuke depicting a Hannya mask, Japan, Edo period

This boxwood netsuke depicts the Hannya mask, a classic symbol of Japanese Noh theater. The short horns, rounded forehead, deep eye sockets, and wide-open mouth evoke the transformation of a woman consumed by jealousy into a demon. The sculptor sought to achieve precise volume and a tense gaze, alternating polished and dark areas to accentuate the expressiveness.

On the reverse, a trompe-l'oeil loop closes the back of the coin. The whole demonstrates masterful workshop work, both sober and dramatic, faithful to the tradition of theater masks.

Height 4.5