African Masks

Functions, Symbols, and

Examples

Several Functions of Masks

To seek the help of powerful spirits To control these forces To enlist help against the powers of

destruction To embody the qualities of a specific animal To ask for protection. To honor the spirits and bring forth their

blessings through dance

Hawk Mask of the NunaBurkina Faso

The zigzag lines flanking the face signify the – "path of the ancestors"

The checkerboard pattern – ignorance and

knowledge, dark and light.

Antelope MaskDogon People Mali

The antelope is admired for its beauty, strength, and courage.

It is the symbol of the hard work

Elephant MaskBamileke People Cameroon

The elephant mask signifies kingship and wealth.

Black denotes the relationship between the living and the dead.

White refers to the ancestors and potent medicines.

Red symbolizes life, women, and the institution of kingship.

Masks Representing People

Masks used in ceremonies would represent honored people: – Elders– Spiritual leaders– Beautiful people– Young– Wise people.

Youthful Spirit MaskBaule peoples, Côte d'Ivoire

Horns and teeth– mischief

The youthful dancer playfully chases young women around the village, spurred on by their songs.

Feminine BeautyPunu People of Gabon

Reflects Punu ideals of feminine beauty: – elegant coiffure– rounded forehead– highly arched eyebrows– almond shaped eyes– narrow face– small chin

White color – spirit world.

Danced by men on 6’stilts at celebrations and funerals.

Mwana pwoAngola

Used in their initiation ceremonies

Worn by men The masks represent

female ancestors The dance mimics the

graceful gestures of women and transmits fertility to the spectators.

Noble Elder Chokwe People D.R.C.

This mask depicts an elderly man of noble rank.

To bring prosperity to the village.

MendeMozambique

Ideals of female morality and physical beauty:– The downcast eyes

indicate a spiritual nature

– The high forehead indicates good fortune

– The elaborate hairstyle reveals close ties within the community of women.

MakondeMozambique

Used for the initiation of men and women into adulthood

Chiefly Courage and AngerPende People D.R.C.

The interlacing diamond pattern signifies chiefship

The mask's white rimmed eyes express uncontrolled anger

The mask appears only in times of social crisis, when the chief must assert his authority