This mask takes its name from the early Heian poet, Ariwara no Narihira. He was a man born of nobility and a lieutenant-general (chujo) of the fifth rank. He was also called “one of the six famous poets” in that period. This mask was modeled on him. It is used for the noblemen of Heike clan such as “Kiyotsune” and “Tadanori” in Noh plays
Doji represents a young boy, who is symbolizing eternal youth as the incarnation of God. The word doji literally means “child” in Japanese, but in Noh it refers to be a divine. This mask is projecting a feeling of noble and graceful beauty.
Asakura-jo was named after the lord Asakura clan, who governed Echizen (Fukui Prefecture), or the Noh song “Asakura” in the Noh play “Yashima.” This mask has prominent cheekbones and the upper and lower teeth in the opened mouth. These features make this mask look friendly and good-natured.
