Asian Art Korean Exorcism Masks Shadowbox Framed Traditional Hahoe Byeolain 


Korean masks have a long tradition with use in a variety of contexts. They were used in war, on both soldiers and their horses; ceremonially, for burial rites in jade and bronze and for shamanistic ceremonies to drive away evil spirits; to remember the faces of great historical figures in death masks; and in the arts, particularly in ritual dances, courtly, and theatrical plays. The present uses are as miniature masks for tourist souvenirs, or on cell-phones where they hang as good-luck talismans. This set of six masks have the following names – Kag Si, Yangban, Bunae, Seonbi, Imae, and Mog Jung.  They are all enclosed in a plastic (wooden look) and glass frame (Korean Traditional Mask Frame) with a green and gold matting.  It measures 13 ½ “ x 11 ¾” and has a hook on the back for hanging.  It is in great condition, except there are two little nicks on the top part of the frame but not real noticeable, just wanted to call them out.

 

The mask play of Hahoe Byeolsin Exorcism itself was classified as important intangible cultural asset #69 by the South Korean government on November 17, 1980. Hahoe and Byeolsin masks themselves were also labelled South Korean national treasure #121 at the same time. The Hahoe mask dance is one of the folk dramas of Pungcheon Hahoe village in Andong city, and dates from the Goryeo Dynasty.

 

This exorcism was originated from Hahoe-ri, Pungcheonmyeon, Andongkun, Kyeong – buk, Korea.  According to the legend, the Hahoe mask was made by a boy named Heo by the revelation of god at the middle age of the Koryo Dynasty. However, it is known that the boy was died by the anger of god at the moment when a girl who has been in one sided love made a hole on the door of work and looks at his working on the mask.  (Please note this text was taken from the back of the frame and that’s how things were spelled). Very cool, but could be a little scary as it is 3D.  The faces jut out from the background.


Smoke and Pet Free home.  Ships via USPS Ground Advantage to U.S. lower 48.  Please feel free to contact me with any questions before buying.


NOTE: For buyers outside of Continental U.S., additional shipping charges and associated costs (import duties, taxes, etc.) will be incurred.  These charges are the buyer's responsibilities.  Please check with your country's customs office to determine what these additional costs will be prior to bidding or buying.