Mask

Item number Eh6 from the MOA: University of British Columbia.

Public

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Data
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Description

Mask possibly depicting Vata Sanniya (representing flatulence), or Pita Sanni (representing bile). The mask has a dark green humanoid face with black hair and eyebrows, red-rimmed protruding eyes with black pupils and crescent-shaped slits under the eyes, red nostrils and lips, white teeth separated by black lines, and a crescent-shaped slit between the two rows of teeth. Multi-coloured cotton ties are threaded through holes in the sides of the mask and knotted together at the back.

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.

Cultural Context

exorcism

Iconographic Meaning

The colour green indicates this is a disease-causing demon. The red outlining of the eyes indicates sore eyes. The demon represented in this mask is associated with flatulence and produces insane behaviour, shaking, and burning of limbs.

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