U'mista Cultural Society

The Potlatch Gallery

Image of a darkened corner in the Potlatch Gallery with a cedar chest visible in the foreground. Corner of the Potlatch Gallery showing a large cedar post and a group of wolf masks. Corner of the Potlatch Gallery showing a group of masks and headdresses from the potlatch collection View from the west end of the Potlatch Gallery showing the north side and entrance wall.

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Sisiyutł - Double-headed Serpent

Colour photograph of a SISIYUTŁ mask shot against a black background

The Sisiyutł is a double-headed serpent with a human head in the center of its body. The Sisiyutł can cause death or bring supernatural power to those who see it. In ceremonies, it is usually associated with warrior dances. You can see a Sisiyutł painted on the ferry and carved in the sign that welcomes you to Alert Bay. Can you find the other Sisiyutłs in this gallery?

Owner (headpiece in photo): Yekutłikalas, Sam Charlie, Mamalilikala (Village Island)

Owner (large): Iwakalas, Harry Hanuse, Mamalilikala (Village Island)

Owner (set – headpiece & belt): Arthur Bondsound, Kwikwasut´inuxw (Gilford Island)

Sisiyutł

Sisiyutł or double-headed serpent, mostly unpainted wood with painted green, black and red markings above and around eyes and mouth, hinged at the sides
Sea serpent headdress and belt, central human face and braided cedar sides on belt, carved serpent heads protruding tongues, curved horns and upturned nose
Belt in the shape of a Sisiyutł or two headed serpent, part of a Bakwas or Wild Man of the Woods costume
A raven mask, brightly painted with hinged wings, clasping a carved ermine figure in its beak, below which is a sisyutl or serpent figure.