Nagasawa Kiyoharu (born circa 1927 )


A noh mask of young woman (Magojiro)Showa (1926-1989) era, late 20th centuryGesso and pigment over carved wood, signed on the reverse with burned seal Nagasawa Kiyoharu 8 1/4in (21cm) high
|Described as having the expression of an innocent young woman with a beguiling smile, the mask-type known as Magojiro is said to have been first carved in the mid-sixteenth century by Kongo Magojiro who based its appearance on his late wife, celebrated for her great beauty. It is chiefly used in Kazuramono, "wig pieces," featuring the appearance of a beautiful, ethereal woman. Nagasawa (also known as Fukakusa) Kiyoharu specialized in masks representing young women, including Magojiro, Wakaonna, and Ko-omote.