PACIFIC NORTHWEST COAST KWAKWAKA'WAKW (KWAKIUTL) RAVEN MASK. Raven Masks (Gwaxwiwe') typically has a long, straight, or slightly curved beak. The beak is elongated and it is carved and decorated wood mask with a hinged jaw, meant to be snapped shut by the dancer to create the clattering sound that announces the arrival of the cannibal spirit birds. The use of primary colors (red, black, and white), the characteristic ovoid shapes for the eyes, and the bold formlines are hallmarks of Kwakwaka'wakw carving. - Length: 18 inches; height (excluding fringes): 10 inches. Estimate $250-350
