Masks of Africa

Mask making is a major tradition in West and Central Africa.  Many people in 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. 

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

contact us...

African Mask Gallery
info@africanmaskgallery.com