Mask
Item number Eh87 from the MOA: University of British Columbia.
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This information was automatically generated from data provided by MOA: University of British Columbia. It has been standardized to aid in finding and grouping information within the RRN. Accuracy and meaning should be verified from the Data Source tab.
Description
Mask representing a sanni figure. Painted dark yellow-brown overall with red lips and around the bulging eyes. Black stippling around the mouth where the front incisors are missing. Arched eyebrows and furrowed brow. A strip of fabric has been tied through two holes either side of the mask. Label on reverse reads "Datha Sanni".
History Of Use
Worn during curing ritual of the Sanni Yakuma ceremony, part of the Tovil series of dramas performed by Sinhalese ritual specialists and dancers. The Sanni Yakuma is intended to combat diseases and afflictions caused by the Sanni group of demons. These consist of 18 or more apparitions of the chief demon, Maha-kola-sanni. The officiating healer honours Buddha, then appeases the demons with offerings, dancing, and chanting.
Iconographic Meaning
Symbolizes the demon that causes tooth aches and abscesses? yellow usually symbolizes disease demons which represent diseases which manifest themselves by this colour on the face.
Cultural Context
exorcism
Item History
- Made in Sri Lanka
- Collected during 1978
- Owned by Jason Schoonover before June 10, 1982
- Received from Jason Schoonover (Seller) and Museum of Anthropology Shop Volunteers (Funding source) on June 10, 1982
What
- Name
- Mask
- Identification Number
- Eh87
- Type of Item
- mask
- Material
- nux vomica wood ?, paint and fibre
- Manufacturing Technique
- carved
- Overall
- height 17.0 cm, width 13.5 cm, depth 7.5 cm
Where
- Holding Institution
- MOA: University of British Columbia
- Made in
- Sri Lanka
Who
- Culture
- Sinhalese
- Previous Owner
- Jason Schoonover
- Received from
- Jason Schoonover (Seller) and Museum of Anthropology Shop Volunteers (Funding source)
When
- Collection Date
- during 1978
- Ownership Date
- before June 10, 1982
- Acquisition Date
- on June 10, 1982
Other
- Condition
- fair
- Accession Number
- 0812/0003
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