Transformation Mask Item Number: A7879 from the MOA: University of British Columbia
Description
Carved, wooden, raven and human transformation mask. The exterior consists of a long black beak, red mouth and stylized nose. The beak and sides are hinged with pieces of fibre and leather, nailed to all sides. The eyes are white, outlined in black on a white background surrounded by a green ovoid; brow is black. Nailed to the top of the head are numerous broken raven feathers. Another figure is painted underneath the mouth. The mask opens in three directions to expose a painted human face with cutout nostrils and mouth. The three open boards are detailed with ovoids, s-shapes, U’s and split U’s. The back is partially hollowed. There is an attached twine cord that assisted the beak in opening and shutting. The mask is painted black, red, white and green with Northwest Coast stylized designs. There is a large metal ring nailed into the top of the head, probably for display purposes.
Iconographic Meaning
Represents Raven, man, depicting origin myth in which Raven became a human.
Narrative
Purchased from Indigenous family in Alert Bay by the owner of the Muse Antique Galleries, through the intermediary services of Chief William Scow. Used until recently in their ceremonials.
Item History
- Made in British Columbia, Canada before 1961
- Collected in 'Yalis (Alert Bay), British Columbia, Canada during 1961
- Owned by Muse Antiques & Art Galleries before November 16, 1961
- Received from H. R. MacMillan (Funding source) and Muse Antiques & Art Galleries (Seller) on November 16, 1961
What
Who
- Culture
- Kwakwaka'wakw
- Previous Owner
- Muse Antiques & Art Galleries
- Received from
- H. R. MacMillan (Funding source) and Muse Antiques & Art Galleries (Seller)
Where
- Holding Institution
- MOA: University of British Columbia
- Made in
- British Columbia, Canada
- Collected in
- 'Yalis (Alert Bay), British Columbia, Canada
When
- Creation Date
- before 1961
- Collection Date
- during 1961
- Ownership Date
- before November 16, 1961
- Acquisition Date
- on November 16, 1961
Other
- Condition
- fair
- Current Location
- Case 27
- Accession Number
- 0066/0004