Mask

For the Yup’iks, every animal has a soul, the Yua (called inua by the Inuit), which deserves respect on pain of punishment and damage. According to their beliefs, it is the Yua who decide to make their bodies available to men, thus determining periods of abundance or famine.

The adult male walrus, with its impressive size, strength and aggressiveness, is a model of virility in Yup’ik country.

The Yup’iks are famous for their ceremonial masks. Men must therefore observe a certain number of prescriptions to ensure the benevolence of animal souls.

The manufacturing process began with the collection of wood specially salvaged for the occasion. She was subjected to special rituals in order to respect the Yua. The sculptor then followed the shaman’s instructions for the shape of the object, and finished by adding the various elements. The ellanguat, wooden hoops set with feathers and figurative elements, symbolize the different worlds that make up the Yup’ik universe. The shaman, on stage, crossed them to symbolize his travels.

Price: €17,500