In the folk theatre which comes from the cult of Nuo, Heshang the Buddhist monk, with his crescent moon eyes and his broad grimacing smile, plays a comic role, which through laughter drives out danger and gravity.

This type of mask is worn during the dance known as the « Monk provoking a lion ». Other cultures, notably Nepal and Japan, also have this character of a laughing monk who nevertheless plays a different role.

Many thanks to Philippe Fatin for his deep field knowledge and kind availability.

Reference:
Yves Créhalet, Le Masque de la Chine, P.48, 49, 133, 135, 137, 139 Actes Sud, 2007.