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Masks & Spirits

Hannya Mask

Hannya

Meaning & Symbolism

Jealousy, rage, obsession, suffering of attachment. The hannya represents a woman consumed by jealousy who has transformed into a demon — a warning about destructive passion.

The Story

From Noh theater, the hannya mask represents women who have become demons through intense jealousy or rage. The mask's expression changes with the angle — tilt down and it appears sorrowful, tilt up and it appears enraged. This duality represents the pain beneath the fury.

Traditional Placement

Back + GlutesFront Torso

Best Seasons

All Seasons

Compatible Motifs

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