Transformation Mask
Item number A4497 from the MOA: University of British Columbia.
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Description
Carved transformation mask. The exterior figure is a large thunderbird head with a yellow beak, black outlined eyes surrounded by a green ovoid-like shaped, as well as a red mouth and detailing. Nailed to the top of the bird are numerous cedar bundles. The mask opens in four directions – to the sides, up and down – exposing a painted human face with cutout nostrils, eyes and mouth. The side boards have a painted sisiutl with each side depicting a serpent head. The top has the human’s horns while the bottom open board is detailed with ovoids, U’s and split U’s. Twine cord attaches to all four sides to assist the mask in opening and shutting. The opened boards are hinged with leather and attached by staples. The mask is painted yellow, green, red, white and black with Northwest Coast stylized designs. Long, rectangular shaped handle extends from top back of mask.
Item History
- Made by Herbert Johnson (Maker) in British Columbia, Canada before 1960
- Collected in Kingcome Inlet, British Columbia, Canada and Ukwanalis, British Columbia, Canada
- Owned by Sam Webber before July 1, 1960
- Received from H. R. MacMillan (Funding source) and Sam Webber (Seller) on July 1, 1960
What
- Name
- Transformation Mask
- Identification Number
- A4497
- Type of Item
- mask
- Material
- cedar wood, metal, cedar bark, fibre, skin, paint and lacquer
- Manufacturing Technique
- carved and painted
- Overall
- height 42.8 cm, width 47.1 cm, depth 104.3 cm
Where
- Holding Institution
- MOA: University of British Columbia
- Made in
- British Columbia, Canada
- Collected in
- Kingcome Inlet, British Columbia, Canada and Ukwanalis, British Columbia, Canada
Who
- Culture
- Kwakwaka'wakw
- Creator
- Herbert Johnson (Maker)
- Previous Owner
- Sam Webber
- Received from
- H. R. MacMillan (Funding source) and Sam Webber (Seller)
When
- Creation Date
- before 1960
- Ownership Date
- before July 1, 1960
- Acquisition Date
- on July 1, 1960
Other
- Condition
- good
- Accession Number
- 0027/0002
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