Ko-omote Noh Mask

An item at Metropolitan Museum of Art

Ko-omote (literally “small face”) Noh masks are used for main or secondary roles, of either a young girl or a supernatural being. Inspired by Heian-period (794–1185) aristocratic style, the face is painted white, with shaved and painted eyebrows, neatly combed hair, and black-dyed teeth. The mask conveys the idea of innocent beauty.

Asian Art

An exhibit at Metropolitan Museum of Art

The Met's collection of Asian art—more than 35,000 objects, ranging in date from the third millennium B.C. to the twenty-first century—is one of the largest and most comprehensive in the world. Each of the many civilizations of Asia is represented by outstanding works, providing an unrivaled experience of the artistic traditions of nearly half the world.

Metropolitan Museum of Art