Waterspirit mask
Description
wood, brown patina, small remains of red and indigo blue pigments, half-spherical cavity on the underside, the flat upper side carved with two faces arranged opposite to each other, tubular projections at the chin, minor missing parts, cracks, traces of insect caused damage, metal base;
the ancestors “duen”, the deceased local heroes “am’om” and the water spirits “owuamapu” play an important role in the Jjaws religious belief. Every year a festivity in honour of the water spirits takes place, lasting for several days, held in order to win their favour and to secure the well-being of the community. The outward appearance of the masks extremely varies, for they reflect the visionary or dreamed look a water spirit has in the eyes of its respective carver. The masks are always worn horizontal on the head, for the water spirits themselves hold their heads in one level with the surface of the water as well.