Mask Item Number: 2669/6 from the MOA: University of British Columbia
Description
Mask of the character called Wonsoongie (Monkey). Oval shaped head with fur-like fibre surrounding its perimeter. Red face with circular gold cut-out eyes outlined in black. Long red nose and small bright red lips. Red cloth covering and ties are attached to the back of the mask and hang down. Mask backing is yellow and has a white label with printed red characters to one side.
Specific Techniques
First the gourd masks were carved, then three layers of paper mache were applied, then they were painted.
Narrative
This set of masks were made in Canada after Mr. Han immigrated, but his family brought him the traditional materials to make the masks from Korea.
Iconographic Meaning
Wonsoongie accompanies a shoe peddler on his rounds and does small chores for him. When the shoe peddler dispatches him to collect money a woman owes him for shoes, the monkey instead plays around with the woman and returns empty-handed. He is a somewhat dopey animal.
Item History
- Made by Changhyun Han (Maker) in North Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada between 2002 and 2003
- Owned by Changhyun Han before May 15, 2006
- Received from Changhyun Han (Donor) on May 15, 2006
What
- Name
- Mask
- Identification Number
- 2669/6
- Type of Item
- mask
- Material
- gourd fruit, cotton fibre, paper, adhesive and paint
- Overall
- height 38.0 cm, width 33.0 cm, depth 4.0 cm
Who
- Culture
- Korean
- Creator
- Changhyun Han (Maker)
- Previous Owner
- Changhyun Han
- Received from
- Changhyun Han (Donor)
Where
- Holding Institution
- MOA: University of British Columbia
- Made in
- North Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
When
- Creation Date
- between 2002 and 2003
- Ownership Date
- before May 15, 2006
- Acquisition Date
- on May 15, 2006
Other
- Condition
- good
- Current Location
- Case 77
- Accession Number
- 2669/0006