The false faces of the Iroquois /

Members of the Iroquois False Face Society participate each year in three different ceremonies. In spring and autumn they clear the settlements of disease in the so-called ``traveling rite''; at odd times they respond to the particular dreams of a sponsor in a private feast; and they are much in evidence at the midwinter festival-crooked mouth masks, straight-lipped doorkeeper masks, hanging mouth masks, protruding tongue masks, wry-faced and smiling masks, and countless others. What do we know of their origins, functions, and relationships to other cultures? Are the rituals the same at Coldspring, at Tonawanda, or at the Six Nations Reserve? Have the rites changed through time? Do the false faces continue to perform today? These questions are answered in this thoroughly absorbing volume. Fenton (emeritus, SUNY at Albany) has reviewed the voluminous literature, participated as an observer, and recorded his views with relish and understanding. He discusses mask collecting in general and masking in eastern North America, while not neglecting the parallels between Iroquois masking and the Carnival in Europe. Beautifully illustrated, this volume contains many black-and-white photographs and 24 false faces and husk faces in striking color. A treasure for those interested in Iroquoisana and the Native American, the volume is certainly the definitive work on the subject. A testimonial to both the writer's and the publishers' art. For public libraries and university collections.-D. Jacobson, Michigan State University

Fenton has devoted his life to the study of northeastern Indian culture, particularly Iroquois ceremonial masks, or ``false faces,'' which are still worn today as an expression of traditional religious ties with the supernatural world. In a jargon-free manner, the author provides an astute analysis and description of the masks, including a classification scheme designed to help laypersons, collectors, and curators identify a wide variety of these cultural artifacts. Additional material discusses aspects of Iroquois life such as legends, mask-carving techniques, ritual tools, and religious poetry, songs, prayers, and dances. Many interesting color and black-and-white photos and drawings enhance this definitive work. Bibliography; to be indexed. JMM. 391'43 Iroquois Indians Masks / Iroquois Indians Religion and mythology / Iroquois Indians Rites and ceremonies / Masks America [CIP] 86-19360