African Mask making is a major tradition in West and Central Africa. Many people in West African countries use masks for ceremonial and religious purposes. Masks can represent entities such as spirits, legendary animals, or mythological beings. Sometimes people wear masks with a costume as part of a ritual or performance. Secret societies also use masks in their rites and initiations.
Masks often make a strong visual impression. When you look at masks in an art
museum, you recognize them as stunning artistic achievements, but you do not
see them in their intended context. When worn as part of a costume by
a person dancing to music, a mask takes on a powerful symbolic meaning that
is lost when it is viewed alone. Most viewers can understand only a fraction
of the meaning a mask has within the culture of a particular society.
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Learn more about the History of African masks
Home Links Intro to Masks About the Masks Masks of Africa Functions of Masks How Masks are Made Types of Masks History of Masks Senufo Tribe Baule Tribe
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African Mask Gallery
info@lotusmasks.com
(203) 629-0902