Mask
Item number Eh29 from the MOA: University of British Columbia.
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- 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
- 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
- Name
- Mask
- Identification Number
- Eh29
- Type of Item
- mask
- Material
- paint, wood and cotton fibre
- Manufacturing Technique
- painted and carved
- Overall
- height 15.5 cm, width 14.3 cm, depth 5.5 cm
Where
- Holding Institution
- MOA: University of British Columbia
- Made in
- Sri Lanka
Who
- Culture
- Sinhalese
- Previous Owner
- Jason Schoonover
- Received from
- Museum of Anthropology Shop Volunteers (Funding source) and Jason Schoonover (Seller)
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
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