Mask

Traditional Alaskan mask carving reached a peak in the 18th and 19th centuries. Single human or animal face masks are common to northern Alaska, and the line between secular and religious masks is difficult to draw, although secular masks are generally plainer. Male dancers wore masks in winter ceremonies.

Trade; ceremonial; dancing.

Human face mask with smooth front, straight nose in high relief extending from curved eyebrows, and oval eyes cut through. Triangular nostrils cut in nose from bottom. Mouth is hole created by two intersecting ovals. Remnant of dark painted lines, vertical wedge on chin, horizontal line on left cheek, eyebrows, and parted hair indicated across top and vertical series of dots on lighter section at centre of forehead. Carving marks on interior surface are overall fairly smooth. Small holes on sides and indentation on one side indicates that a string or cord was previously tied there. Screwed in metal eye hook at centre above eyes with a twisted multi-ply wire attached. 'J.C.' is written in white at one side.