Authentic Hand-Carved Hahoe Mask – Yangban

The Authentic Heritage: Hand-Carved Hahoe Mask (Korean National Treasure No. 121)

Step beyond mass-produced souvenirs and own a piece of Korea’s living cultural history with this Authentic Wooden Hahoe Mask. Directly acquired from the Mask Museum in the historic Hahoe Folk Village of Andong, South Korea, this piece represents a centuries-old tradition and provides a genuine connection to Korean heritage.

Background and Cultural Significance

The Hahoe masks (Tal) are not merely decorative items; they are central to the Hahoe Byeolsin-gut Tallori, a shamanic ritual and mask dance dedicated to bringing prosperity and peace to the village. The original set of masks dates back to the 12th century and is designated as National Treasure No. 121 of South Korea, making them the oldest wooden masks known in the country.

Each mask represents a character from the traditional village hierarchy—the Scholar, the Bride, the Butcher, and others—capturing human emotion and social satire. This specific mask is a replica of the Yangban (The Aristocrat). He traditionally represents the wealthy, powerful, and often pompous noble class, whose vanity and hypocrisy are satirized during the performance. This mask is instantly recognizable by its wide, exaggerated smile and distinct black eyebrows. This mask is a direct continuation of that lineage, ensuring that the unique spiritual and artistic integrity of the tradition is preserved.

Guaranteed Authenticity and Craftsmanship

Unlike reproductions found elsewhere, this mask is authentically hand-carved in Hahoe by local artisans who maintain the traditional techniques. Our piece was sourced directly from the location of its origin, and the reverse side of the mask is stamped, providing visible proof of its authenticity and heritage.

The meticulous detail and artistry in the wood carving are immediately apparent. The masks are traditionally carved from Alder wood and feature deep, expressive lines that seem to change expression depending on the angle of view—a testament to the ingenious design perfected over hundreds of years.

Product Specifications

This traditional mask features compact, display-friendly dimensions. The Face Length measures 17 cm (6.69 inches), the maximum Width is 14 cm (5.51 inches), and the maximum Depth is 7 cm (2.76 inches). This mask is crafted for display and includes a durable hanging cord for easy mounting on your wall.

Key Product Features

• Authentic Hahoe Origin: Hand-carved in the Hahoe Folk Village, South Korea, following a tradition that is hundreds of years old.
• Guaranteed Provenance: The reverse of the mask features an official stamp for authenticity, verifying its origin and traditional craftsmanship.
• Dimensions: Measures 17 cm (6.69 in) in length, 14 cm (5.51 in) in width, and 7 cm (2.76 in) in depth.
• Cultural Treasure: This mask represents the Yangban (The Aristocrat) character, designated as a Korean National Treasure for its historical and cultural significance.
• Ready for Display: Crafted from natural Alder wood, and includes a hanging cord for immediate wall mounting.