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Huxwhukwamł (Mask of the Huxwhukw)

Portland Art Museum

89.52.2

The huxwhukw, or mythical Raven, represents one of the supernatural associates of Baxwbakwalanuksiwe’, the cannibal spirit, which appears in the form of birdlike masks in the tseyka, or red cedar-bark ceremony. These masks are commissioned as part of the inherited privilege of being a hamat’sa society initiate. The masks and the dances in which they are worn pacify and tame the hamat’sa, who personifies the cannibal spirit and the insatiable nature of life, and who ultimately exhibits the honored behavior of a high-ranking person. The articulated beaks clap dramatically during a performance, accompanied by the dancers’ characteristic cries.

  • Collection History Provenance

    The Elizabeth Cole Butler Collection.

  • Type of Item mask
  • Culture Kwakwaka'wakw
  • Material red cedar wood, paint, feather, raffia, dye
  • Measurements height 48.0 in (overall)
  • Creator Kwakwaka'wakw artist
  • Made in Northwest Coast, Northwest Coast
  • Creation Date during 1940
  • Categories Northwest Coast; Ceremonial and Ritual Objects

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