Mask Item Number: A4238 from the MOA: University of British Columbia
Description
Wooden, carved, bear mask with a long snout painted black with orange edging. The jaw is hinged with pieces of leather on either side, nailed to the lower mouth. Eyes are round and protrude outward. Mouth opens with fangs and teeth showing. The head is covered with two skins, one covering the nose and upper jaw another with fur, covering the top of the head and dangling down the back. Ears are formed out of the skin and sit at the top, back of the head. The inside of the mask is hollow with the exception of an attached twine cord that assistants the mouth in opening. The mask is painted black and orange with Northwest Coast stylized designs.
Iconographic Meaning
Said to represent a bear (nan), however B. Scow (in 1966) said the eyes could mean it's an otter.
Item History
- Made in British Columbia, Canada before 1953
- Collected in Smith Inlet, British Columbia, Canada and Takus, British Columbia, Canada
- Owned by Mrs. Joe Johnny before March 11, 1953
- Received from Mrs. Joe Johnny (Seller) and H. R. MacMillan (Funding source) on March 11, 1953
What
Who
- Culture
- Kwakwaka'wakw
- Previous Owner
- Mrs. Joe Johnny
- Received from
- Mrs. Joe Johnny (Seller) and H. R. MacMillan (Funding source)
Where
- Holding Institution
- MOA: University of British Columbia
- Made in
- British Columbia, Canada
- Collected in
- Smith Inlet, British Columbia, Canada and Takus, British Columbia, Canada
When
- Creation Date
- before 1953
- Ownership Date
- before March 11, 1953
- Acquisition Date
- on March 11, 1953
Other
- Condition
- fair
- Current Location
- Case 37
- Accession Number
- 1948/0003