Moogamhl (Four Face Mask)

The general name for this type of mask is Moogamhl, which means Four-Face mask. Like most of its kind, it is a combination of the Crooked Beak mask (central face), two Raven masks (one each side), and a Huxwhukw mask (top center). These last three masks represent the cannibal-bird associates of Baxbaxwalanuksiwe, the cannibal spirit that energizes the dancers in the Hamatsa initiation ceremony, an elaborate winter ritual of four nights' duration. The three spirit-birds are also represented in the series of Hamatsa dances by separate masks, and Moogamhl might appear in their company, providing one's family linage owned the privilege. Beau Dick produces masks for ceremonies as well as exhibition and is known for his carving versatility in various stylistic traditions.