Mask Item Number: Nb3.1301 from the MOA: University of British Columbia
Description
Mask with protruding angled eyebrows, nose, lips, cheeks and chin. The mask is painted black with white, black and orange scallop designs over and beside the eyebrows, heavy black eyebrows with white edges, white on the cheeks and around the mouth, red nostrils and pointed lips. There is a collar-like chin that projects to the sides and may represent a fish's tail. There is a series of holes at the top of the head and along the edges to the sides.
Iconographic Meaning
Imposing scale probably indicates Komokwa, the King of the Undersea World and protector of seals in Kwakwaka'wakw mythology.
Item History
- Made in British Columbia, Canada
- Owned by Walter C. Koerner before April 8, 1976
- Received from Walter C. Koerner (Donor) on April 8, 1976
What
Who
- Culture
- Nuxalk
- Previous Owner
- Walter C. Koerner
- Received from
- Walter C. Koerner (Donor)
Where
- Holding Institution
- MOA: University of British Columbia
- Made in
- British Columbia, Canada
When
- Ownership Date
- before April 8, 1976
- Acquisition Date
- on April 8, 1976
Other
- Condition
- fair
- Current Location
- Case 11
- Accession Number
- 0336/0153