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Tsonokwa and Moon Transformation Mask (circa 2003)

Dimensions noted are of the mask with hair and when closed. When opened, the mask measures 39″h x 22″w x 10″d.

Tsonokwa is a large, human-like supernatural creature often referred to as the Wild Woman of the Woods. She can be heard calling out “hoo-hoo” as she wanders through the trees, and has been used among Kwakwaka’wakw families and others as a source of fear to keep children from wandering off. They would be told she eats small children and grabs them and puts them in the basket she wears on her back if they stray too far from home.

Also known as Copper Woman, Tsonokwa is associated with wealth and is regarded as a high status crest image signified by spectacular masks. In one version of the various myths about her, she becomes smitten with envy by the beauty of a local young woman. She sought the friendship of this young woman while at the same time seething with envy and despair that she herself could never be so beautiful, and thus remains tormented.

This mask by Beau Dick shows Tsonokwa transforming into the Moon, a protector and guardian spirit, here personified as a supernatural chief.