Vintage Japanese Gōshō Ko-Omote Noh Ceramic Mask on Wood Wall Plaque

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Description

A striking vintage Japanese Ko-omote Noh mask presented on its original slatted wood wall display.

Ko-omote (小面), literally “small face,” … Read more A striking vintage Japanese Ko-omote Noh mask presented on its original slatted wood wall display.

Ko-omote (小面), literally “small face,” is a classical Noh mask type representing a young woman. Its famously restrained expression is characterized by a pale complexion, delicate features, narrow eyes, stylized hair and brilliant red lips.

This decorative interpretation features a molded and painted ceramic mask mounted against a warm, vertically slatted wood plaque. Red braided cords flank the mask, while the original purple cord provides the hanging mechanism.

The Japanese inscription at upper right reads 能面 小面, identifying the subject as a Ko-omote Noh mask. The calligraphic inscription at lower left reads 豪勝作, identifying the work as made by Gōshō.

Research located closely corresponding Japanese examples attributed to Gōshō, including Ko-omote and other traditional mask subjects produced as decorative ceramic wall art. The construction and presentation are consistent with mid- to late-20th-century Japanese decorative arts of the Showa period.

This piece was created as decorative wall art inspired by Japan’s centuries-old Noh theatrical tradition and is not represented as a stage-used theatrical mask.

The combination of the serene ivory-white face, vivid vermilion lips and cords, black detailing and richly toned wood makes it especially effective as a standalone accent in a Japandi, wabi-sabi, Japanese modernist, eclectic or collected interior.

Dimensions:
Overall: approximately 12” H × 7.5” W
Mask: approximately 7.5” H × 4.75” W

Original hanging cord remains present. Ready to hang and display. See less