Three Masks for the Noh Drama and Kagura Dance

Three Masks for the Noh Drama and Kagura Dance
Edo period (1615-1868) to Showa era (1926-1989), 19th to 20th century
Each of carved wood, comprising: Okame (Goddess of Mirth), a smiling face with prominent cheeks, finished in off-white gesso and black lacquer, the reverse with a carved seal Ashibune (active early 20th century), 20cm (7 7/8in); Otobide (Hornless Demon), with wide-open mouth and gilt-metal eyes, the reverse with a carved seal Tenkaichi Yuran, 20cm (7 7/8in); and Washibana-akujo (Fierce Old Man), with black and white painted eyebrows and moustache and wispy horsehair beard, the reverse with an illegible carved seal, 22.5cm (8 7/8in). (3).