Monk Mask

Soul, South Korea

9.5 inches, painted wood with white cotton hood

The Yangju Byeolsandae Nori is a very popular folk dance in Korean history. There are over 20 characters, of which several are monks. The masks can be carved out of wood or made of paper mache. There is a cloth hood which pulls over the dancer’s head and helps to secure the mask. Red, black, white and other bright colors help to identify the characters. This purple-brown character is an old monk who has lost his teeth, and whom you seldom see in shops or collections. Expertly carved and with a strong, well-sewn hood.

$185