Mask

Item number Na1121 from the MOA: University of British Columbia.

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Data
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Description

Oval, green-brown face mask with smooth, contoured front surface. Eyebrow ridge forms a heart-shape with chin. Almond-shaped eye holes are deep-set, prominent high cheek, triangular nose with triangular nostrils at a ninety degree angle to face and mouth slit between thin dark pink-red wedge-shaped lips. Interior surface is grey-green with rough adze marks. Two small holes on either side of eyes. There is fishing line tied through the top set of holes. There are six other holes along the outside margin which do not go through to the inside. Hole at top back, slightly off-centre. Wood is checked at top margin.

History Of Use

Traditional Alaskan mask carving reached a peak in the 18th and 19th centuries. Single human or animal face masks are common to northern Alaska, and the line between secular and religious masks is difficult to draw, although secular masks are generally plainer. Male dancers wore masks in winter ceremonies.