Shinje Taita Mask Item Number: 3010/15 a-b from the MOA: University of British Columbia

Description

Shinje Taita or Father Sun mask (part a). Face is long and narrow. Large light grey collar extends from under a prominent pointed chin. Face is painted red with small black eyebrows. There are holes for eyes, nostrils and mouth. Eyes are deeply set and close together, nose has a narrow ridge, and mouth has pursed lips. Solid black headband extends across the forehead with 15 holes along the top ridge to insert the 15 feathers (part b) into. Feathers are either brownish-red or white with brown stripes, and are tied together with thread. Two holes are drilled on each side of the mask, with a string attached to the lower holes. Back of mask painted black.

History Of Use

Used for carnival, a time of encounter both with friends and ancestors.