Hannya mask
A mask from Noh theatre. A face that shows anger and sorrow at once.
The hannya is one of the most recognisable motifs in Japanese tattooing. It looks fierce, but it tells a very human story: about emotions that can change a person.
Where the hannya mask comes from
The hannya is a mask from Japanese Noh theatre. It shows a woman turned into a demon by jealousy and rage: she has horns, sharp fangs and metallic eyes. By tilting the head, the actor can show fury or despair, because the expression of the mask changes with the angle.
The best-known plays with this mask are “Dōjōji” and “Aoi no Ue”. In the first, Kiyohime, in love and rejected by a monk, turns into a serpent. That is why in tattoos the hannya so often appears with a snake.
What it means in a tattoo
The hannya mask is a reminder of how strong emotions can be, and is meant to keep them in check. Tradition also gives it a protective role: the fierce face is said to ward off evil and misfortune.
In the theatre the colour of the mask tells you about the character: a pale one is a woman of high rank, a red one a woman of the common people, and the darkest one has become a demon completely. In a tattoo I choose the colour mainly for the composition, but the story is worth knowing.
How it works in a composition
The hannya is a frontal motif with a strong drawing, so it works well on the upper arm, chest, thigh and on the back, where it can take the whole surface. I pair it with a snake, maple leaves, cherry blossoms or chrysanthemums.
I do it both in colour and in black and grey. The black and grey version brings out the sculpting of the face; in colour the contrast between the mask and the background plays a bigger part.
Work
Full portfolio
Formats
Other styles
FAQ
01How much does a tattoo cost?
The price depends on the size, the placement, the amount of detail and the number of sessions. Tell me what you want, give the size and placement and attach references, and I will prepare a quote for your project.
02What is the first step?
Message me on WhatsApp or Instagram: your idea, placement, approximate size and references. I will tell you whether it can be done, suggest a format and a rough price, and then we book a consultation or go straight to a session date.
03How far in advance should I book?
I usually book a few weeks ahead. For large projects we plan the following sessions straight away.
04How do I prepare for a session?
Get a good night’s sleep. Eat a proper meal before the session and drink plenty of water. Avoid alcohol and medication that affects blood clotting, provided stopping it is safe and agreed with your doctor. Wear comfortable clothes that give easy access to the area.
05Which styles do you tattoo?
Three: Japanese, neo-traditional and traditional. What they share is a bold outline and full colour, which is what makes a tattoo age well. Japanese is my main specialisation; neo-traditional and traditional I have tattooed alongside it for years.
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