Mask : wood

This mask was carved by John Wilnoty, Jr. (1960-2007), a self-taught carver and member of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians. Different types of masks were traditionally used in Cherokee culture for a variety of ceremonial purposes. Today, masks are still used in ceremonial dances. The images depicted on masks include a variety of animals, often bear or deer, as well as variations on the “booger” mask. Artisans also make masks depicting the seven Cherokee clans