Semimaru Noh mask is used in the Noh play called “Semimaru” and expresses the sad real life story of a boy who, despite being a son of Emperor Godaigo, was abandoned in the Aisaka Mountain by the order of his father because of his blindness. The mask, in which his eyes are covered faintly leaving them slightly open, is made to show his elegance even with a gloomy expression.
There is another blind Noh mask called “Jaykuhoushi”. While Jakuhoushi has the look of common people, Semimaru has the grace of a person who was born into nobility. The characteristics of the mask are emphasized by the eyes, which are carved out all the way so the performer has a better view than other masks which are usually carved out so that only the pupils are view holes. The color of the mask emphasizes white. His hair is dirty and matted in parts.
Semimaru, who was left at the Aisaka Mountain, was visited by his older sister who was born with her hair growing upward. The two disabled siblings sought solace in each other. The play ends with the poignant departure of the sister.