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Ishieen Maal (Sheela Mala) Mask

Ishieen Maal (Sheela Mala) Mask

Projecting eyes surrounded by holes send a stronger message than other Kuba masks. These eyes and the feather coiffures are signature elements of the warriors, charged with policing communities to ward off conflicts. In performances, the character has been observed as a vigorous dancer who directly confronts musicians and audiences.



Raffia, raffia, feathers, cowrie shells, fiber (cut pile weave)
5 11/16 x 10 x 11in. (14.5 x 25.4 x 27.9cm)
Gift of the Christensen Fund
2001.49
location
Not currently on view

Resources

Published ReferencesSeattle Art Museum: Bridging Cultures, London: Scala Publishers Ltd. for the Seattle Art Museum, 2007, p. 49

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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