Owari Tokugawa, Noh Masterpiece (1988)

Noh theater is one of the most dramatic works or art in the world and the oldest form of theater of Japan. These representations have a lot of work behind in terms of objects to recreate the stories. The masks, dresses, shoes, and many other material elements that are used in the scene and their combination are very special. These outfits looks like old folklorical spirits and other creatures that could come out of very imaginative worlds from other times, which is a subtle reminder that the origins of this art were in the 7h century, when it was a dance called Kagura to attract God’s good will and improve the harvest.

In spite of its past Noh has evolved to a very sophisticated art that with these interesting costumes, dances and music is now in the UNESCO World Heritage list and is a Living National Treasure of Japan. This book explores the collection of the Owari Tokugawa family that contains a perfect representation of the detailed art Noh theaters can offer to their attendees. The photographed objects come off the collection of Tokugawa Art Museum.

Tokugawa Art Museum / Asahi Shimbun, 1988. 285 x 240 mm. Softcover, 145 pages.

First edition. Condition: Like new.