Item Records

This page shows all the information we have about this item. Both the institution that physically holds this item, and RRN members have contributed the knowledge on this page. You’re looking at the item record provided by the holding institution. If you scroll further down the page, you’ll see the information from RRN members, and can share your own knowledge too.

The RRN processes the information it receives from each institution to make it more readable and easier to search. If you’re doing in-depth research on this item, be sure to take a look at the Data Source tab to see the information exactly as it was provided by the institution.

These records are easy to share because each has a unique web address. You can copy and paste the location from your browser’s address bar into an email, word document, or chat message to share this item with others.

  • Data
  • Data Source

This information was automatically generated from data provided by MOA: University of British Columbia. It has been standardized to aid in finding and grouping information within the RRN. Accuracy and meaning should be verified from the Data Source tab.

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

With an account, you can ask other users a question about this item. Request an Account

With an account, you can submit information about this item and have it visible to all users and institutions on the RRN. Request an Account

Similar Items