the front; the visible side — the face or front surface of a person or thing, often contrasted with the back (裏).
建物の面と裏では雰囲気がまったく違う。
The front and the back of the building have completely different atmospheres.
この絵は面(おもて)ばかりでなく、裏にも細かい描写がある。
This painting has detailed work not only on the front but also on the back.
表と面をよく見てから買い物をする。
Check the front and surface carefully before buying.
the surface — the outer or visible surface of an object.
鏡の面が曇っていてよく見えない。
The surface of the mirror is fogged and hard to see.
この陶器は面が滑らかで高級感がある。
This pottery has a smooth surface and a sense of quality.
表面の汚れは柔らかい布で拭いてください。
Please wipe the surface dirt with a soft cloth.
a mask (esp. noh or kyogen mask) — the theatrical mask used in Noh/Kyogen performances.
能楽師は舞台で能面をつけて演じる。
A Noh performer puts on a Noh mask and performs on stage.
その面は百年以上前の貴重な能面だ。
That mask is a valuable Noh mask over a hundred years old.