Mask Item Number: Eh29 from the MOA: University of British Columbia
Description
Mask possibly depicting Sem Sanniya (who represents phlegm) with a grey-brown face, thick black eyebrows, protruding oval-shaped eyes that each have a crescent-shaped hole under them, a wide nose, simplified ears that curve inwards at the centre, red lips with black borders, and white teeth. An off-white cotton string is tied through holes in the ears. A label on the reverse reads, "(Possibly) SEM SANNI: Phlegm," in typewritten letters, and "31" in black ink.
History Of Use
Mask is one of the apparitions of the demon, Maha-kola-sanni, yaka responsible for a wide variety of afflictions. Demons are thought to be capable of causing particular illnesses. In order to cure these diseases, a healer or exorcist directs a ritual ceremony which seeks to propitiate the demons with offerings and encourages the demon to leave the patient.
Cultural Context
exorcism
Item History
- Made in Sri Lanka before 1978
- Collected during 1978
- Owned by Jason Schoonover before February 10, 1981
- Received from Museum of Anthropology Shop Volunteers (Funding source) and Jason Schoonover (Seller) on February 10, 1981
What
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
- Accession Number
- 0704/0028