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This information was automatically generated from data provided by MOA: University of British Columbia. It has been standardized to aid in finding and grouping information within the RRN. Accuracy and meaning should be verified from the Data Source tab.

Description

Carved wooden, crooked beak mask. The beak has large red, ovoid shaped nostrils outlined with two red split u behind it. Running from the brow is a large central frill that protrudes outward and curves inward to the centre tip of the beak and back into itself; detailed with black u-forms. The mouth is red, flat and protruding; bottom part of jaw is hinged with rectangular pieces of leather. The face is black with white detailing; two white u-forms behind the eyes. The eyes are black, outlined in white on a white ovoid shaped ground; brow is black. The underside of the beak is black with a white ovoid. The inside of the mask is hollow with the exception of twisted twine pieces through the lower beak to articulate the beak which is now nailed shut. Attached to the top edge are many bundles of small stripes of cedar bark. Hanging from the top and sides are long strips of cedar that would cover the wearer. The mask is painted black, white and red with Northwest Coast stylized forms.

History Of Use

Worn by Hamats!a.

Iconographic Meaning

Represents Crooked Beak of Heaven, Galugwadzawe', one of the servants of Baxbakwalanuksiwe', cannibal at the north end of the world.

Item History

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