Tomoko Fuse is mostly known for her beautiful boxes and modular origami. Here she uses her skills to create magnificent origami masks representing various types of the Japanese theater. They are superbly detailed, and each has a unique expression.

The Masks are divided into several sections:

Gigaku masks

A performing art imported in the sixth century that included a procession of masked figures followed by dances and mimes accompanied by flutes, drums, and cymbals. The lion dance (shishi mai) was a featured part of the performance.

Bugaku masks

Court dance imported from the continent before the eighth century. Elaborately costumed and masked figures perform slow, stately dances to instrumental music called gagaku.

Gyoudou masks

Kyogen masks

Kyogen is the classical comic theater which balances the more serious Noh.

Noh masks

Noh theater combines the elements of dance, music, masked song and poetry.

Shuu saku bako masks ("Work in Progress")

Special thanks to Michael and Lar for assisting with translations!