small, roughly rectangular mask of bird's head with long bead with four abalone teeth; two small frowning human faces above and below bird's head; lower face also has two hands; human faces have abalone inlay eyes; bird's head has abalone and copper eyes; red, green, black and white pigments; ermine pelt pendants hand down sides and back; ermine pelt around cap; tan and brown plaid fabrics behind mask and on crown; wool, ribbon and printed cotton ties and pendants

Frontlet, c. 1850

Nuxalk (Bella Coola)expand_more

Wood, pigments, abalone shell, copper, ermine pelts, cotton, plant fibers, wool, buttons, sea lion whiskersexpand_more

The Robert J. Ulrich Works of Art Purchase Fundexpand_more  2008.61

Not on Viewexpand_more

Frontlets were created by most tribal groups in the Northwest Coast region, and were usually decorated with figures. They were worn with an ensemble that included a robe and dance outfit, and were used for special events like greeting important visitors and potlatches. During such ceremonies, the abalone shells of the frontlet and the whiteness of the ermine fur would glow from the fire. 

 On the center of this object is an unknown figure that probably derives from Bella Coola traditional stories.  It has abalone canine teeth and a pronounced nose.  The upper portion of the frontlet features a main figure that wears headgear in the shape of a bird.  The lower figure may represent the spirit of the main figure.  It is unclear whether the arms and hands are from the lower or main figure.
 The Bella Coola are known for their strong carving tradition, and many tribal groups look to their work for inspiration, including their neighbors the Kwakwaka'wakw (Kwakiutl).
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Details
Title
Frontlet
Role
Artist
Accession Number
2008.61
Curator Approved

This record is from historic documentation and may not have been reviewed by a curator, so may be inaccurate or incomplete. Our records are frequently revised and enhanced. If you notice a mistake or have additional information about this object, please email collectionsdata@artsmia.org.

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small, roughly rectangular mask of bird's head with long bead with four abalone teeth; two small frowning human faces above and below bird's head; lower face also has two hands; human faces have abalone inlay eyes; bird's head has abalone and copper eyes; red, green, black and white pigments; ermine pelt pendants hand down sides and back; ermine pelt around cap; tan and brown plaid fabrics behind mask and on crown; wool, ribbon and printed cotton ties and pendants

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