“Where laughter conceals satire, and curved lips whisper with grace.”
This grand-scale handcrafted mask set unites two of the most iconic characters from Korea’s traditional Hahoe mask theatre—the Nobleman (Yangban) and the Bu-Nae. Together, they embody the dual essence of human expression: satire and allure, mockery and charm.
The Nobleman, with his deeply carved brows and upturned mouth, captures both laughter and pride. His expression—part amusement, part arrogance—mimics the social elite of his time, inviting gentle ridicule through humour. In the folk plays of Hahoe, he stood as the mirror of power, mocked yet dignified, reflecting the people’s wit and wisdom beneath the laughter.
The Bu-Nae, in contrast, offers quiet sensuality. Her face—oval like an egg, with rounded cheeks that softly overlap her chin—radiates fullness and warmth. With crescent-shaped eyes and a faint, teasing smile, she embodies feminine elegance and playfulness. Her expression of coy affection was crafted not for speech, but for subtle movement—for the art of suggestion.
Both masks are hand-carved from single pieces of warm wood, preserving the tactile beauty of traditional Korean sculpture. Their imposing dimensions (43 cm and 39.5 cm) make them not mere ornaments, but presences—each commanding attention in silence.
Originating from Hahoe Village in Andong, these masks were central to Byeolsingut Talnori, a ritual performance held under the first full moon. Among the eleven surviving masks, the Yangban and Bu-Nae remain the most recognisable—a timeless pair of satire and grace. The Hahoe mask collection is the only mask ensemble in Korea designated as a National Treasure (No. 121).
Displayed together, they form a dialogue—of laughter meeting allure, of wood breathing life into theatre.
Displayed apart, each retains its voice, transforming stillness into performance.
Dimensions
- Nobleman
Length- 32cm (12.6 inch)
Depth- 15cm (5.91 inch)
Height- 43cm (16.93 inch)
- Bu-Nae
Length- 29cm (11.42inch)
Depth- 10.5cm (4.13 inch)
Height- 39.5cm (15.55 inch)
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