This mask depicts the Kwakwa̱ka̱’wakw giantess Dzunuḵ̓wa (Tsonokwa), the Wild Woman of the Woods. Anthropologist Audrey Hawthorn noted that the Dzunuḵ̓wa’s “most important role was that of bringer of wealth and good fortune” and that “as a dancer in the Tsetseka performance she was a shaggy, lumbering creature with half-closed eyes.” [1] This mask captures the essence of Dzunuḵ̓wa with an all-black face, closed eyes, and pursed lips as if whistling. The area around the mouth is deeply sculpted with prominent cheeks and a heavy brow that lend to the simian-like visage of this supernatural being.

1. Hawthorn, Audrey. 1979. Kwakiutl Art. Vancouver: Douglas & McIntyre, 143.