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