chuujou　中将

KEY WORD :　art history / sculptures

A noh mask *noumen 能面 supposedly intended to represent the 9c poet and courtier Ariwara no Narihira 在原業平 (825-80), who gained the court rank of chuujou or captain, at the age of 53 (see *Ise monogatari-e 伊勢物語絵). The refined features reflect a well-bred man of sensitivity, with high eyebrows that conventionally indicate someone of high court rank. Two distinct vertical wrinkles where the eyebrows meet the bridge of the nose impart a certain sadness. Worn by the leading player, shite シテ in the second act of plays like URIN'IN 雲林院 and MICHIMORI 通盛, where the gentle, tragic side of the warrior class is emphasized.

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