Apakark (Sun and Moon) Mask


The Apakark mask is drawn directly from photographs of a mask in the Phoebe A. Hearst Museum collection at Berkely campus in San Francisco, California. 
This mask was used by the Shaman Apakark in his weather medicine ceremonies and dances.

It was collected in the 1880's from Bering Sea Alaska, by the Alaska Commercial Company.

Two protective dog spirits are left and right of the sun and moon image, the corner blocks represent the rays of the sun, two outstretched arms are the shamans hands shown protecting the people. The round disks represent the full moon and new moon and the two paddle coming off of each of those represent the rays of the moon.

Apakark was my Great-Grandfather on my Mother's side.

- Next Mask -