A traditional Japanese theater mask. Noh (能) is a classical Japanese form of dance drama. Noh masks are also used in Kyōgen performances (the comedic counterpart to Noh) and sometimes also in other Japanese performing arts and ceremonies. Noh masks are traditionally made from carved cypress wood, painted or lacquered. They are frequently affixed by means of a red silk tying cord. They tend to employ heavy emphasis of shadows in order to portray different emotions (which can be changed by angling the mask).