Deva Sanniya Mask is a striking representation from Sri Lanka’s traditional Sanni Yakuma ritual, symbolizing Epidemic diseases. The bright yellow face conveys sickness, while the wide, weary eyes reflect suffering and exhaustion. The decorative crown and colorful patterns signify the widespread, uncontrollable nature of epidemics. The tusk-like fangs emerging from the mouth emphasize the destructive force of such illnesses, while the bold colors highlight severity and fear. Deva Sanniya Mask is used for its purpose of healing and blessing through a performance in which 18 kinds of maladies, inflicted by devils, are purged from the human body.
- 1950s-1960s era Sir Lankan, culturally used wooden masks.
- A character of the 18 Sanni masks group.
- A polychrome wooden disease mask used for healing rituals.
- Masks play important roles in religious, healing and exorcism rituals.
