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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 with red humanoid face that has bulging eyes with crescent-shaped holes underneath, a bulbous nose, black and white lines on the forehead and brows, and wide red lips surrounded by radiating black triangles, and long white oval teeth. An orange cord is strung through holes on either side of the mask. A label written in blue ink on reverse reads, "Wewhensanai," and another label written in red ink reads, '57/TLG'.

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. This mask represents Wewhen Sanni, who depicts shivering. If used as Gamaya, in the Kolam, it is used in the last part of the drama.

Cultural Context

exorcism

Iconographic Meaning

The mask may represent two characters. The bulging eyes, large mouth, single row rectangular teeth, lines around mouth and colour correspond with Wewhen Sanni, or its physical characteristics also suggest Gamaya, a character in the Kolam, a satirical folk dance drama.

Item History

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