Mask Item Number: Eh38 from the MOA: University of British Columbia

Description

Mask possibly depicting Pita Sanniya (which represents bile) with eyes that have white sclerae, black pupils, and are outlined in red. The eyebrows are black, red, and yellow and there is a plume-like, yellow motif with small vertical stripe between eyes and there are crescent-shaped slits beneath the eyes. The mask also has a big nose with red nostrils and a large open mouth with thick red lips and white teeth outlined in black. A black moustache curls upwards at the sides. Plant fibre twine is attached through a hole on either side of the mask. Label on reverse at top reads, "(Possibly) Pita Sanni: bile" in typed letters, and "23" in pencil.

History Of Use

Worn during curing ritual of the Sanni Yakuma ceremony, part of the Tovil series of dramas performed by Sinhalese ritual specialists and dancers. The Sanni Yakuma is intended to combat diseases and afflictions caused by the Sanni group of demons. These consist of 18 or more apparitions of the chief demon, Maha-kola-sanni. The officiating healer honours Buddha, then appeases the demons with offerings, dancing, and chanting. Pita Sanni is the demon associated with excess bile complaints, and is probably represented by this mask.

Cultural Context

Exorcism

Iconographic Meaning

Green colour of face is associated with demons

Item History

What

Name
Mask
Identification Number
Eh38
Type of Item
mask
Material
plant fibre, wood and paint
Manufacturing Technique
painted and carved
Overall
height 14.5 cm, width 11.5 cm, depth 6.5 cm

Who

Culture
Sinhalese
Previous Owner
Jason Schoonover
Received from
Museum of Anthropology Shop Volunteers (Funding source) and Jason Schoonover (Seller)

Where

Holding Institution
MOA: University of British Columbia
Made in
Sri Lanka

When

Creation Date
before 1978
Collection Date
during 1978
Ownership Date
before February 10, 1981
Acquisition Date
on February 10, 1981

Other

Condition
fair
Current Location
Case 107
Accession Number
0704/0037