Bird mask

20th century

“A large eye does not mean keen vision” is a proverb used by Ikwerri people to caution against judgments based solely on appearances. This bird’s eyes may be hidden under his beak, but are still watching everyone as it struts about with lurching movements.

Wood

8 1/4 x 8 1/2 x 24in. (21 x 21.6 x 61cm)

Gift of Mark Groudine and Cynthia Putnam, in honor of the 75th Anniversary of the Seattle Art Museum

2003.101

Now on view at the Seattle Art Museum

Resources

Exhibition HistorySeattle, Washington, Seattle Art Museum, SAM at 75: Building a Collection for Seattle, May 5, 2007 - September 9, 2007

Seattle Art Museum respectfully acknowledges that we are on Indigenous land, the traditional territories of the Coast Salish people. We honor our ongoing connection to these communities past, present, and future.

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