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Japanese Complete ‘Noh Play’ Production, Houshou School 22 Books and Box, 1853

About the Item

From our recent Japanese Acquisitions Travels. A remarkable artistic Noh Play survivor. One of a kind Japanese Complete "Noh Play" Production as written in 22 Woodblock books from the Utai Bon Houshou school, complete with original signed wooden storage box tomobako and dated Kaei 6 (1853). This antique Japanese book of Noh plays published in 1853. All pages are wood block printed and of a style common to the cultural elite of the day. The paper this book is required over 200 days to make and is made of the inner bark of the gampi (mulberry) tree and made to last virtually indefinitely. Despite its age, the print is still very clear, and the pages turn easily. Quality: good condition Dimensions: books 8.5 inches high and 5.5 inches wide wood box 15 inches tall and 10 inches wide Provenance: old Tokyo collection About Noh: Noh—derived from the Sino-Japanese word for skill or talent—is a major form of classical Japanese musical drama that has been performed since the 14th century. Developed by Kan'ami and his son Zeami, it is the oldest major theater art that is still regularly performed today. Traditionally, a Noh program includes five Noh plays with comedic kyogen plays in between; an abbreviated program of two Noh plays and one kyogen piece has become common in Noh presentations today. Noh is often based on tales from traditional literature with a supernatural being transformed into human form as a hero narrating a story. Noh integrates masks, costumes and various props in a dance-based performance, requiring highly trained actors and musicians. Emotions are primarily conveyed by stylized conventional gestures while the iconic masks represent the roles such as ghosts, women, children, and the elderly. Written in ancient Japanese language, the text vividly describes the ordinary people of the twelfth to 16th century (thank you Wikipedia) Lifetime Guarantee of Authenticity: All of our Asian works of art come with our Lifetime Authenticity Guarantee.
  • Dimensions:
    Height: 15 in (38.1 cm)Width: 10 in (25.4 cm)Depth: 8 in (20.32 cm)
  • Style:
    Edo (Of the Period)
  • Materials and Techniques:
  • Place of Origin:
  • Period:
  • Date of Manufacture:
    1853
  • Condition:
    Wear consistent with age and use.
  • Seller Location:
    South Burlington, VT
  • Reference Number:
    1stDibs: LU1289231100422
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