![]() The association reportedly came from the use of the mask in noh theater, specifically the “Aoi no Ue,” a play about Lady Aoi. How would this demonic, rage-fueled mask symbolize wisdom? Turns out, “hannya” is Japanese for “wisdom.” It has its roots in the Buddhist concept called “perfect wisdom,” which leads to enlightenment. What better way to check malevolence than a malevolent-looking mask, right? So it makes sense to get a hannya tattoo for protection.Īnother symbolic meaning to the hannya mask is wisdom. Some people attach a hannya mask token on their keychains to beat back evil. In Japanese culture, the gnarly-looking mask can represent good luck - not the kind Brian Mills (Liam Neeson) meant in “Taken.” The kind that keeps you protected, like an owl tattoo. Your hannya mask tattoo doesn’t have to represent the dark side heartbreak, jealousy and possession. So is the Japanese hannya mask simply about homicidal rage borne out of jealousy - and lurid themes? What is the Meaning of Hannya Mask Tattoo? Photo from World Tattoo Gallery on Pinterest Some pretty dark stuff right there, all right. Another demon gets mixed up in this story, a yamauba or mountain woman who eats infants. When Prince Genji returns to his faithful duties as a husband, Lady Rokujo decides to take matters into her hands. The mask is used prominently on a Katsushika Hokusai play called “ The Laughing Demon.” In it, a married man named Prince Genji has focused all his attention on his wife, Lady Aoi, leaving his mistress, Lady Rokujo, seething with jealousy. The actors wear masks to represent stock characters - and one of them is the hannya: a woman whose fierce jealousy takes hold of her so much that it turns her into this demonic-like creature.īefore you judge this character, let’s take a look at what “inspired” her rage. The stories are told by the supernatural being who takes on a human form. ![]() The hannya mask comes from the noh and kyogen theater, which feature Japanese folklore and the supernatural in classical musical performances. The Hannya Mask: What is It? Photo from on Pinterest So if you’ve been mulling over a hannya mask tattoo because you think it’s about one badass mother, think again. It’s especially requested by guys.Īlthough the recognizable mask looks similar to a heavy metal maestro rocking out even while fatigued, this Japanese mask is not even a dude. The heavy metal-like description is a hannya mask - one of the more popular motifs for anyone who’s into Japanese tattoos. It can only be a tired but super professional Alice Cooper after a heady series of stadium concerts.
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |
AuthorWrite something about yourself. No need to be fancy, just an overview. ArchivesCategories |