Haida, British Columbia
1870s
Wood with pigment
Height 4½ in. (11.4 cm), width 8¼ in. (21 cm)
Provenance: Private collection, Virginia; Wellcome Collection, now housed at UCLA, entered that collection in 1936
This Haida shaman's mask was made in British Columbia in the late 19th century. The two central openings are described as fittings for removable bird beaks, connecting the mask to transformation imagery and performative use. A closely related example is recorded in the Wellcome Collection, now housed at UCLA, and entered that collection in 1936.
The mask is carved in a broad curved form with painted green, white, red, and dark details across the face. The large eye panels, downturned mouth, and central openings create a direct and highly graphic visual presence. Its scale and construction suggest a specialized ceremonial object rather than a full head-covering mask.
We ship free anywhere in the world, fully insured, packed by hand.
Haida, British Columbia
1870s
Wood with pigment
Height 4½ in. (11.4 cm), width 8¼ in. (21 cm)
Provenance: Private collection, Virginia; Wellcome Collection, now housed at UCLA, entered that collection in 1936
This Haida shaman's mask was made in British Columbia in the late 19th century. The two central openings are described as fittings for removable bird beaks, connecting the mask to transformation imagery and performative use. A closely related example is recorded in the Wellcome Collection, now housed at UCLA, and entered that collection in 1936.
The mask is carved in a broad curved form with painted green, white, red, and dark details across the face. The large eye panels, downturned mouth, and central openings create a direct and highly graphic visual presence. Its scale and construction suggest a specialized ceremonial object rather than a full head-covering mask.
We ship free anywhere in the world, fully insured, packed by hand.
