Lion Dance Mask

Item number 807/2 from the MOA: University of British Columbia.

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Description

Large mask with bright blue hair, bright pink face, large semi-circular cut-out eyes, large black painted eye brows, bulbous nose, small cut-out mouth with painted red lips and white teeth. A small bamboo rod is attached with metal wire to the inside of mask near the nose.

History Of Use

During a Cantonese lion dance, one dancer wears a mask representing a lion, dancing to the rhythm of drums, gongs, and cymbals done by the team. Dancing in front of the lion, and often poking at it with a fan made of a palm leaf, there is often a figure wearing this mask, called “daaih tauh faat”, or “big-headed Buddha”. Lion dances are performed at New Year, at the opening of new businesses, when buildings and renovations have been completed, and on other celebratory occasions. The lion or lions dance in front of the door above which is suspended a lettuce which the lion eventually “eats”, thereby taking possession of the red packet of money that is hung up with it.

Narrative

Lion dances are commonly done in Cantonese celebrations.

Iconographic Meaning

Lion dances are celebratory and auspicious, and the noise that accompanies them, often including firecrackers, is also considered to be lucky and protective, frightening away evil influences.