Mask Item Number: Ef272 from the MOA: University of British Columbia
Description
Papier-mache face mask painted in blue, white, yellow, red, and black. The mask has dramatic facial features that include a large swirled black moustache, arched eye brows and eyes, a pointed nose and a wide open mouth. There are white floral designs painted on the face's black painted hair and holes in the ears to attach string to mask for holding it in place on the face. There are also holes for eyes and nostrils.
History Of Use
Worn in a traditional folk dance called 'chhau'.
Iconographic Meaning
Design in centre of forehead symbolizes a vaishnavite, or devotee of Vishnu. This mask depicts rakshasa, a demonic character from Indian mythology.
Item History
- Made in Purulia, West Bengal, India
- Collected during 1975
- Owned by Edward M. Lavalle
- Owned by Michael M. Ames before February 17, 1977
- Received from Michael M. Ames (Donor) on February 17, 1977
What
Who
- Culture
- Bengali
- Previous Owner
- Edward M. Lavalle and Michael M. Ames
- Received from
- Michael M. Ames (Donor)
Where
- Holding Institution
- MOA: University of British Columbia
- Made in
- Purulia, West Bengal, India
When
- Collection Date
- during 1975
- Ownership Date
- before February 17, 1977
- Acquisition Date
- on February 17, 1977
Other
- Condition
- fair
- Current Location
- Case 106
- Accession Number
- 0357/0001