Tuesday, July 22, 2014

The Wonders of African masks



One of the main characteristics of culture of African peoples is use of masks in rituals and ceremonies. It is believed that the earliest masks were used in Africa before Paleolithic era. They represent spirits of animals or ancestors, mythological heroes, moral values or a form of honoring of a person in a symbolic way. They are made from wood, pottery, textiles, copper and bronze. Details could be made from animal teeth, hair, bones and horns as well as feathers, seashells and even straw and egg shells. Maker of the masks has a high rank in the village because it is believed that he has a contact with a spirit world and making masks is a craft passed down in the family.

African Baule Tribal Mask

African Animals masks


                                                 
African Masks Map


African Elephant mask

African mask 


African Tribal Mask -Kenya 



There are two main forces that influence the style of an African tribal mask:

1. The traditional style that is dictated by the social and religious beliefs of the community.
2. The individual vision of the carver.

African tribal artists do not try to create a perfect representation of their subject. Although some realistic portraits are made, others celebrate more abstract qualities like nobility, beauty, courage, mischief and humour.
* Interesting African masks information

- African mask are generally made to be used. This African art is usually made to be used in various ceremonies and social events such as weddings and funerals.

- Mask usually have a spiritual meaning or connection.

- The mask making skill and knowledge of the spiritual meanings held by masks are passed down from father to son.

- Mask are usually designed to appear human or animal or a combination of the two.

- Mask are often decorated with such things as animal hair or straw (for hair and beards), animal horns, animal teeth, feathers, and sea shells.

- Not everyone in a tribe has the honor of wearing a mask; it is usually only a select few in the tribe. Often only men and sometimes only elders are given this honor.

- It is generally believed that the individual who wears the mask transforms into a spirit. This transformation usually takes place during some type of ritual. This can allow for communication between humans and spirits.

- African mask often represent the cultural values of the tribe. For example In Gabon large mouths and chins represent strength and authority.

- Mask are usually made out of wood. Other materials that are used include metals (especially bronze and copper), light stone, fabric, and pottery.
Often mask are painted.
 

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