noun
beshimi; Noh mask with slanted mouth, bulging eyes, and large nostrils
A specific type of Noh mask representing a fierce or demonic expression. The term is primarily used in the context of traditional Japanese Noh theater.
能楽で使われる癋見の面は、怒りや威嚇を表す。
The beshimi mask used in Noh theater expresses anger or intimidation.
この癋見は室町時代に作られたと伝えられている。
This beshimi mask is said to have been made in the Muromachi period.
The term べしみ is of uncertain origin. It may derive from an old Japanese word related to pressing or grimacing, but the exact derivation is unclear. The kanji 癋見 and 圧面 are conventional spellings associated with this mask type.