East Asia

Traditional Japanese Noh mask

Q: I want to sell this Noh mask. Could you give me some idea of its value? Sharon, 1775

A: If you want retail, wholesale and insurance values, plus marketing advice, your will have to pay for an appraisal. What you are getting now is a B- grade… at no charge!

Your attractive piece is a typical male character from a Noh theater play. However, it has been hastily made for sale to Japanese homemakers or foreign tourists. How do we know that? If you enlarge the front scan you can see that the painted details are sloppy. But on the wall it is well enough made to look professional. I think it would be ideal for most collectors. Authentic Noh masks are very carefully crafted and usually not painted on the rear.

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