mask (ansiktsmask)

1916.9.69

Name and identification of character
The mask can be used either in Kolam, depicting the drummer's son called Cukkini, or in Sanni, depicting bilious diseases, referred to as Pit Sanni (Sin.).

Context
The mask is used both in Kolam, in the drummer's episode, and in Sanni.

Material
Wood, vel-kaduru (Sin.) (Nux vomica).

Iconography
The mask is small and is normally known as käta muna (Sin.). It has a round face and is painted in reddish brown. A few teeth protrude from the mouth. It has no ears. The nose is flat. All these features convey the impression of the foolish son of the drummer. On the other hand, the mouth, with the three teeth, denotes a Sanni demon causing excessive vomiting. The dancer normally hides grains of rice or pieces of coconut flowers inside the mouth and simulates the act of vomiting.

2000 03 23
Dr. M. H. Goonatilleka