Uba is the mask of an old woman, such as the tsure wife of a deity in human form (Takasago, Kuzu), and can also be worn for the hundred-year-old Komachi. with semi-closed down-turned eyes and drooping mouth. Her hair and eyebrows are painted with alternating strokes of black and white. This mask is somewhat stylized: the bones around the eyes are simplified and the wrinkles etched in around the mouth, at the eyes, and over the forehead are shallow but distinct. The eyes appear almost closed but are actually carved as long slits. Otsuku Kōkun has given his Uba a somewhat unbalanced mouth, but an overall expression of tranquility. (MB)
