Chief of Ghosts Mask

Kwakwak’wakw masks created for winter dances are often large, deeply carved and brightly painted. The beings represented appear during the most sacred parts of these ceremonials and are seldom portrayed outside of this context. Ghost dancers appear in ritual dramas associated with death and revival; ghosts were believed to possess the ability to return the dead to life and this was the theme of their performance, signified here by the wooden skulls attached above the mask. The creator of this dramatic work, Beau Dick, is considered by many to be among the most talented contemporary Northwest Coast carvers. He produces masks for ceremonies as well as for exhibition and is known for his carving versatility in various stylistic traditions.