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Haida Transformation Mask
This is the central portion of a Haida Transformation Mask "Transformation masks are physical manifestations of the concept of changing from one state of being to another. They are worn by costumed dancers, who open and close the beaks by pulling on strings attached to the sides of the mask. One of Canada's great national treasures, this North-west Coast mask can be transformed from the outer image of an eagle to the inner image of a supernatural being in human form. This is accomplished by pulling an elaborate set of cords attached to hinged panels that extend to form a corona. At the moment of transformation, the performer turned his back to the audience to conceal the action and heighten the mystery. The flickering light of the fire around which he danced further enhanced the dramatic effect. The ghostlike faces painted on the corona probably represent the souls of the owner's family in the underworld awaiting rebirth. Their incarnation was controlled by the supernatural being, whose face was revealed only during these secret winter ceremonies." To find out more about this mask and to see photos of it in the other stages of transformation follow this link to the Canadian Museum of History, Ottawa:
www.historymuseum.ca/cmc/exhibitions/aborig/haida/haama03...
Haida Transformation Mask
This is the central portion of a Haida Transformation Mask "Transformation masks are physical manifestations of the concept of changing from one state of being to another. They are worn by costumed dancers, who open and close the beaks by pulling on strings attached to the sides of the mask. One of Canada's great national treasures, this North-west Coast mask can be transformed from the outer image of an eagle to the inner image of a supernatural being in human form. This is accomplished by pulling an elaborate set of cords attached to hinged panels that extend to form a corona. At the moment of transformation, the performer turned his back to the audience to conceal the action and heighten the mystery. The flickering light of the fire around which he danced further enhanced the dramatic effect. The ghostlike faces painted on the corona probably represent the souls of the owner's family in the underworld awaiting rebirth. Their incarnation was controlled by the supernatural being, whose face was revealed only during these secret winter ceremonies." To find out more about this mask and to see photos of it in the other stages of transformation follow this link to the Canadian Museum of History, Ottawa:
www.historymuseum.ca/cmc/exhibitions/aborig/haida/haama03...