Okina is traditionally performed at New Years or at the beginning of a theatrical season, and depicts the transformation of an old man into a Shinto deity. Unlike other noh plays, Okina has no plot, and the monologue is composed of ancient words and phrases that are no longer understood. The dance steps are considered auspicious, and the actor prepares for the performance by several days of ritual purification.

Set against a silver printed background, this image shows Okina slowly turning in his ritual dance. The sumptuous silk brocade of his hunting robe / kariginu has a pattern of stylized flowers in octagons and squares / shokk?, and is worn over deep purple trousers / hakama.

Signature: Hideki

Traditionally the first play of the season.
Old man dances, with chorus and musicians behind.

Printed with silver and gold colored metallic pigments.

Beautifully printed noh woodblock prints in the original folders and a silk covered box. The depicted noh plays are: Hagoromo, Shakkyo, Dojoji, Yuya, Okina, Matsukaze, Kokaji, Ohara Goko, Izutsu, and Shojo.

Matsumoto Hanga Hozon-kai

This object has the following keywords:

• Actors and Actresses
• Noh
• Woodblock Prints

This object is a member of the following portfolios: