Beshimi mask

Detail of a pattern
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At A Glance

  • Period

    early 17th century
  • Geography

    Japan
  • Material

    Hinoki wood with old black patina
  • Dimension

    H x W x D (overall): 20.1 x 15.7 x 7.3 cm (7 15/16 x 6 3/16 x 2 7/8 in)
  • Accession Number

    F2003.5.9
  • EDAN ID

    edanmdm:fsg_F2003.5.9

Object Details

  • Label

    The use of masks in dance, court ritual, processions, and religious ceremonies expanded and flourished under the patronage of the Japanese imperial court during the seventh and eighth centuries, when a wide variety of performance, dance, and musical forms reached Japan from Korea, China, Southeast and West Asia. The elaborate carved and polychromed wood masks for these performances were probably produced by the sculptors of Buddhist icons, but in later periods, mask carving became a specialized skill that was often fostered within families.
    This mask is of the type known as beshimi, for its tightly closed mouth. Beshimi is a demon who usually appears in dance-dramas regarding a fierce but ultimately benevolent being. The simple carving of this piece identifies it with a rural context, probably for use in conjunction with local shrine or agricultural festivals.
  • Provenance

    To 2003
    Seymour J. Janow, Washington, DC, acquired in Japan, to 2003 [1]
    From 2003
    Freer Gallery of Art, given by the family of Seymour J. Janow in 2003
    Notes:
    [1] According to Curatorial Note 1, Ann Yonemura, September 30, 2003, in the object record.
  • Collection

    Freer Gallery of Art Collection
  • Exhibition History

    Japanese Art from the Collection (October 26, 2024 - ongoing)
    Religious Art of Japan (December 18, 2002 to January 4, 2015)
  • Previous custodian or owner

    Mrs. Selma Janow
  • Origin

    Japan
  • Credit Line

    Collected by Seymour J. Janow and Gifted in his memory by his Family
  • Type

    Mask
  • Restrictions and Rights

    Usage Conditions Apply

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