Mask Item Number: A2498 from the MOA: University of British Columbia
Description
Mask representing a sea monster with large protruding eyes that each point outward, thick lips with a movable lower jaw, circular suckers on the cheeks, and horn-like protrusions on top of the head. Mainly painted blue and white with red-rimmed eyes, red nostrils and lips, and red on the suckers. Nail holes and fibre remnants on the reverse.
History Of Use
Closely resembles a published mask used in a Kwakwaka'wakw cycle of dances called the Lao'laxa, which includes a sea monster dance.
Iconographic Meaning
Circular discs on the cheeks represent octopus suckers associated with the sea, and the horns indicate the monstrous qualities.
Item History
- Made by Johnny Nolie (Maker) 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
- Kwakwaka'wakw
- Creator
- Johnny Nolie (Maker)
- 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 27
- Accession Number
- 0336/0157