American Indian Masks & Headdresses

One of the most prominent expressions of American Indian cultural identity and artistry is the tradition of making masks and headdresses. Conjured by tribes for generations, these pieces reflect both the history of its people and the incredibly imaginative approaches of artists.

Though designed differently and popularized in different tribes, both masks and headdresses reflect an element of storytelling. The headdress, which first emerged within the Sioux Indian tribes of the Northern Plains, told the story of the leaders of the tribe. The design and components reflected great achievements and was recognized as a symbol of status and power by all around, whether worn during ceremonial gatherings or dances.

The mask, which originated in the tribes of the Pacific Northwest, also told a story, however it was typically more fantastical in nature. Instead of symbolizing real events, these masks were intended to represent heroic ancestors and spirits and were worn during dances and musical performances.

Quick Facts

• Feathered headdresses were designed to specifically denote the wearer’s successes. Typically, a new feather was added upon a triumph of victory, so a greater number of feathers reflected a larger number of accomplishments
• Different feathers were also intended to allude to different qualities. Raven feathers, for instance, connoted wisdom or sageness, while eagle feathers implied great courage
• Many of the performances that incorporated the rich variety of Pacific Northwest masks were scheduled in the wintertime in part as a means of distracting the tribal population from the doldrums of season