Huxwhukwamł (Mask of the Huxwhukw) Item Number: 89.52.2 from the Portland Art Museum
Description
The huxwhukw, or mythical Raven, represents one of the supernatural associates of Baxwbakwalanuksiwe’, the cannibal spirit, which appears in the form of birdlike masks in the tseyka, or red cedar-bark ceremony. These masks are commissioned as part of the inherited privilege of being a hamat’sa society initiate. The masks and the dances in which they are worn pacify and tame the hamat’sa, who personifies the cannibal spirit and the insatiable nature of life, and who ultimately exhibits the honored behavior of a high-ranking person. The articulated beaks clap dramatically during a performance, accompanied by the dancers’ characteristic cries.
Collection History Provenance
The Elizabeth Cole Butler Collection.
Item History
- Made by Kwakwaka'wakw artist in Northwest Coast, Canada ? or Northwest Coast, USA ? during 1940
What
Who
- Culture
- Kwakwaka'wakw
- Creator
- Kwakwaka'wakw artist
Where
- Holding Institution
- Portland Art Museum
- Made in
- Northwest Coast, Canada ? or Northwest Coast, USA ?
When
- Creation Date
- during 1940
Other
- Categories
- Northwest Coast; Ceremonial and Ritual Objects