Offering from my collection. This is a Noh mask of the old woman Komachi. It represents the later years of Ono no Komachi, famous for the Hyakunin Isshu (Ogura Hyakunin Isshu), and her appearance as a ghost after death. The inscription "十九翁" (Ninju-o, meaning "Nineteen Old Men") is carved on the back. This mask is used in plays such as "Sotoba Komachi." It is a play that features an old woman as the shite (principal character). The general plot is as follows: A group of monks from Mount Koya, on their way to the capital, meet a beggar woman near Abeno in Settsu Province. They judge that the old woman is treating the Buddha disrespectfully and begin to preach to her, trying to correct her behavior and make her leave the sotoba (a type of Buddhist memorial tablet). The old woman then responds with very profound words, defeating them in argument. The monks, sensing that the old woman is no ordinary person, show her deep respect. The old woman, with great confidence, recites a poem, further impressing the monks. When the monks ask her name, she reveals herself to be Ono no Komachi. Komachi reminisces about her youthful beauty and laments her current situation, then falls into a state of madness. At this time, the vengeful spirit of Fukakusa no Shosho, who once loved her, possesses Komachi. Komachi eventually awakens from her madness and speaks of the path of enlightenment, wishing for salvation in the afterlife, which is the true path for humans. She then aspires to enter the path of enlightenment. I believe this is a good mask, as it shows the eerie appearance of sunken cheeks and vacant eyes, while also hinting at the elegance and grace of Ono no Komachi, who was once called a woman of unparalleled beauty. There is a chip on the upper left of the mask from the time of purchase. It shouldn't be noticeable when hung on a wall, so I will offer it at a slightly lower price. There are scratches and stains due to aging. Please examine the photos carefully and purchase with the understanding that no claims or returns will be accepted.