NaxNok mask

late 19th to early 20th century

NaxNok performances are an important element of the complex system of beliefs that connect human beings with supernatural power - the translation of NaxNok is "power beyond the human." Dance performances using NaxNok masks dramatize prestigious names of supernatural beings; however, as is often the case, the name and being associated with this mask is unknown. During the dances dramatic effects are employed to make displays of power seem real, including masks with moveable features (as seen here), stage devices, puppets and clever visual tricks.

Alder wood, paint

12 x 11 1/2 in. (30.48 x 29.21 cm)

Gift of Sylvia Duryee

95.85

Now on view at the Seattle Art Museum

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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