This Waxga̱mł, or “Double-face Mask,” powerfully evokes the masks featured in the Ha̱msa̱mala (dance of the Hamat'sa), the spectacular third part of the Hamat'sa ritual. Representing two of the formidable Supernatural Man-eating Birds, the "assistants" of Baxwbakwalanuxwsiwe’ (Man Eater / Cannibal of the North), this mask showcases the G̲a̱luḵwiwe (Crooked Beak of Heaven) and Huxwhukw (Huxwhukw of Heaven, also Hok Hok, Hohokw, or Huk Huk) [1].

In Kwakwa̱ka̱ʼwakw tradition, these types of masks conform to strict elements of form and must be trimmed with shredded cedar bark. These Supernatural Man-eating Birds are distinguished by their forms and their particular cries during the dance. The beaks are hinged, allowing the jaw to open and close with a string during the dance.

In this stunning creation by Tsimshian artist Tony Gulbrandsen, the G̲a̱luḵwiwe (Crooked Beak of Heaven) stands out with its shorter, blunt beak adorned with dramatic, spiralling curves, echoing the revival period masks of Blunden Harbour. Known as gikang͟a͟mł (tooth mask), its meticulously shaped, shiny copper teeth command attention. Opposing the G̲a̱luḵwiwe, the fearsome Huxwhukw (Hok Hok) looms with its long, straight beak, a chilling tool used to split open skulls and consume brains, embodying a terrifying and powerful presence. A smaller cannibal raven sits atop the head of Huxwhukw.

This work, measuring over 4 feet in length, exudes an overwhelming power and presence, paying fitting tribute to the fierce Supernatural Man-eating Birds in the Ha̱msa̱mala ritual.

1. Not pictured is along with G̲waxgwaḵwalanuksiwe' (Raven at the North End of the World).