Q: The attached photos are of a mask I purchased from an estate in Maryland. I was told the previous owner had a few mask in her collection and other collectibles from Alaska. Not sure if it is Alaskan and the reason for sending you photos. The depiction of teeth is something common in many Alaskan masks. What are your thoughts.  Alfonso, 555 A: I’m not sure either, but I’ll bet it’s from one of the indigenous people of Alaska, Siberia or Northern Canada.

Q: I just discovered this interesting tribal mask. Do you know what it is? Let’s reverse roles and ask you for your opinion. Hints: the mask is carved wood and very old. Once there are a few comments I’ll tell you the whole story about this important piece. A: Write as much as you want

Q: This is a Ga’an (mountain spirit) mask used in the 1970s and 1980s, probably by the Western Apache, Diné, or Chiricahua peoples.  It was acquired from the tribe by a Hollywood studio for use in shooting the movie “Geronimo” (1993), and I bought it from someone who used to work for the studio and was given it as a present.  It appears it once had feathers attached to the tips of the wood.  Incidentally, the first Geronimo movie (1952) also had Ga’an dancers in it.  Aaron, 543 A: I normally post only one mask per person,

Q: The source identified it as “Iroquois Blind Man” mask. I wonder if you have any additional insight on it?  Paul, 525 A: They have been selling these in reservation souvenir shops for many years.