Mask Item Number: Eh42 from the MOA: University of British Columbia

Description

Mask likely depicting Slesma Sanniya (which represents epileptic fits, or phlegmatic diseases). The face is painted black with an undercoat of green and has thick arched brows with red diamond-shaped lozenge between them at the top of the head. The mask also has a wide, short nose with flaring nostrils, bulging round eyes with red rims as well as crescent-shaped holes under each, a grinning mouth with wide red lips, four square upper teeth and no lower ones. There are holes on either side at temples, with red twine running through one and woven hemp ? through the other. Reverse has a typewritten label that reads, "SLESMA SANNI: epliepsy," below which is written "29."

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. Slesma Sanni, represented here, is responsible for phlegm and fainting spells.

Cultural Context

exorcism

Iconographic Meaning

Black face is appropriate for a demon

Item History

What

Name
Mask
Identification Number
Eh42
Type of Item
mask
Material
wood, paint and plant fibre
Manufacturing Technique
carved and painted
Overall
height 18.5 cm, width 14.7 cm, depth 7.2 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
0704/0041