Japanese Copper Relief, Okina Mask Bearer by Masaharu, 1950s

Decorative Japanese copper plaquette, executed as a repoussé relief. The work dates from the middle of the Shōwa period.

Dimensions: height 18 cm, width 14 cm, depth 1.5 cm.

The composition shows a male performer or mask bearer with a traditional Okina mask. Okina is an old, wise male figure from the Japanese Noh tradition, associated with prosperity, long life, blessing and protection. The mask has a friendly smiling expression, closed eyes, deep facial lines and a long moustache and beard.

The impressed inscription can be read as “made by Masaharu at the age of 83”, with the name presumably read as Masaharu. This gives the object a particularly personal and traditional character.

The piece is in beautiful vintage condition, with normal age-related traces, light wear, small marks and a natural patina consistent with its age and material.

An atmospheric Japanese wall object, combining copper, relief work, Noh symbolism and a wabi-sabi presence. Beautiful as a small but powerful interior accent in a Japanese, mingei, vintage or eclectic interior.