Masks and Make-up:
Kabuki make up and masks are designed to be works of art in themselves. They are a main idea of Kabuki being very prominent to not only Kabuki itself, but all of Japanese culture. The extravagant and intricate designs on the masks were done by Japanese artists and painters. These people were all very dedicated to their work and are very passionate about making masks. Common inspirations for kabuki mask designs were demons or spirits, wild animals, and humans (Immoos, 176). Red, white, and black were all very influential and popular colors among masks and Japanese culture. Though, other colors were also used in more complex and unique designs (Immoos, 177). Masks are the most recognizable feature of ancient Kabuki theater and are highly recognized to this day. The makeup in Kabuki theater is very recognizable as well. The pale white base on the face of the actor or actress is almost always used. Additionally red, black, or both colored strokes are made across the face to represent strength and power on the actors. (Reischauer, 233-235). The makeup designs put on actors while preforming is very similar to the designs of the masks. Costumes: The costumes of Kabuki, like the masks and make up, are made to draw attention and be very extravagant (Lombard, 287). Boys dressed up as courtesans, exercising their own kind of attraction, different from women, in fashionable dances and scenes (Lombard, 289-290). To compensate for the absence of women upon the stage, greater attention was given to matters of costume and scenery among men because this was very large in women's acting. Common costumes were doll-like, feminine, and with very bright colors. Costumes also typically involved headpieces with many intricate and delicate parts, and the dresses or overcoats that people wore were very delicate. Men and women costumes were very similar in style, including makeup. The makeup is referred to as "Kesho"(Lombard, 294). |
Kabuki Masks