Pook-ubs Mask Item Number: 634/2 from the MOA: University of British Columbia
Description
Pook-ubs mask. Mask has human-like face with deep contours, round eyes, long protruding mouth, very bushy fur eyebrows and course black hair inserted along the top of the head. Red and white paint rubbed into red cedar.
Iconographic Meaning
According to the artist, in the Nuu-chah-nulth whaling tradition when a crew member fell overboard, the crew didn't turn around to rescue him. But the whaler's were so fit and strong that even when they drowned, and their skin turned white and their eyes were plucked out by sea birds, the drowned person was able to live on as Pook-ubs.
Item History
- Made by Art Thompson (Maker) in Neah Bay, Washington, USA during 1980
- Owned by Art Thompson before May 30, 1980
- Received from Museum of Anthropology Shop Volunteers (Funding source) and Art Thompson (Seller) on May 30, 1980
What
- Name
- Pook-ubs Mask
- Identification Number
- 634/2
- Type of Item
- mask
- Material
- cedar wood, paint, bear skin and horse hair
- Overall
- height 36.5 cm, width 26.0 cm, depth 18.0 cm
Who
- Culture
- Nuu-chah-nulth: Ditidaht
- Creator
- Art Thompson (Maker)
- Previous Owner
- Art Thompson
- Received from
- Museum of Anthropology Shop Volunteers (Funding source) and Art Thompson (Seller)
Where
- Holding Institution
- MOA: University of British Columbia
- Made in
- Neah Bay, Washington, USA
When
- Creation Date
- during 1980
- Ownership Date
- before May 30, 1980
- Acquisition Date
- on May 30, 1980
Other
- Condition
- excellent
- Accession Number
- 0634/0002