This fierce and wonderful First Nations Wild Woman mask measures 10 x 8 x 7 inches for the carved part, and 19 x 12 x 9 including her fall of dark (horse) hair. This piece was carved by the husband and wife native art carving team of Morin and Stiglitz. We are very proud to present their amazing work. This piece features meticulous detail in both the painting and decoration with hand-worked cedar bark trim.

Dzunuk’wa, also known as Tsonoqua, is a supernatural being in Kwakwaka’wakw and Nuu-chah-nulth mythology, often referred to as the “Wild Woman of the Woods”

She is venerated as a bringer of wealth, but is also greatly feared by children, because she is also known as an ogress who steals children and carries them home in her basket to eat.

Tsonoqua’s dualistic nature, embodying both fear and wealth, reflects the complex and sometimes contradictory nature of the Kwakwaka’wakw world.

In one myth, she falls into a pit of fire, hence, her appearance is black in color. In masks and totem pole images she is shown with bright red pursed lips making her signature cry “Huuu! Huuu!”. It is often told to children that the sound of the wind blowing through the cedar trees is actually the call of Dzunuḵ̓wa. Her fearsome reputation kept children close to the village!

Some myths say that she is able to regenerate any wound. She has limited eyesight, and can be easily avoided because she can barely see. In some cultures she is known to be the companion of the Wild Man of the Forest, AKA the Bukwus.