Japan, Iki-ningyo mask, Meiji period, 19th century.
Made of papier-mâché and gofun with glass eyes, this beautiful example of an Iki-ningyo mask (living doll) conveys a strong sense of personality through its intense and realistic expression.
Popularized starting in 1852 following an exhibition in Osaka. The masks on display depicted life-size figures, with expressions that were sometimes dramatic but always realistic. Very quickly, these masks were reproduced for export as souvenirs of Japanese culture, and they were a huge success.
It is sold with its Plexiglas base.
Bibliographic reference: Japanese Dolls: The Fascinating World of Ningyo by Alan Scott Pate
Dimensions of the mask: 12 cm high by 10 cm wide; 20 cm high on its base.
Ref: 140Price: €90
