Mask Item Number: A5279 from the MOA: University of British Columbia
Description
Small mask with black painted eyebrows, moustache with upturned ends, and chin. The nostrils and geometric pattern on the cheeks are also painted in black. There is red paint between the brows, around the eyes, on the bottom of the nose, and on the lips. Human hair is attached to the top of the mask. Mouth and eyes inlaid with abalone. A thin string is threaded through holes either side of the face.
History Of Use
Mask represents a child; mask appears in the atłaamł series.
Cultural Context
The embellishment of masks with abalone increased their dramatic impact by the firelight of the dance house. The eyes and teeth of this mask would have flashed and glittered as the dancer performed.
Item History
- Made in British Columbia, Canada
- Owned by Walter C. Koerner before 1972
- Received from Walter C. Koerner (Donor) during 1972
What
Who
- Culture
- Kwakwaka'wakw
- Previous Owner
- Walter C. Koerner
- Received from
- Walter C. Koerner (Donor)
Where
- Holding Institution
- MOA: University of British Columbia
- Made in
- British Columbia, Canada
When
- Ownership Date
- before 1972
- Acquisition Date
- during 1972
Other
- Condition
- fair
- Accession Number
- 0160/0030