African Masks - an Overview

Authentic African masks are nowadays truly valuable showpieces. In some circles, the masks are included among the finest creations in the art world and are highly coveted by art collectors. Many of the pieces, including some replicas, can be viewed in famed art museums and galleries in many corners of the world. African masks employed by Picasso and others were not just merely sculptures; they were magical objects that were employed by diviners during mediation ceremonies between the living and the dead.

The making of these masks can be traced back in history to long before the Paleolithic times. African masks are spectacular portraits of spirit beings, departed ancestors, mythological heroes, and animal spirits. The masks also project purposes for spiritual and religious beliefs, unseen powers of social control, fertility, initiation into adulthood. .Additionally, the masks are used to convey moral lessons, teaching right from wrong through ceremony.

Masking ceremonials in Africa engender great cultural and time-honored traditions. They are in used both in intimate rituals and for public ceremonies. .African masks are brought round life through lively dance and the ambiance of the occasion. The performances may also be used to invite a spirit's blessing for the prosperity and protection of an individual, family or community.

Traditionally, African masks are brought to life through dancing during celebrations, crop harvesting festivals, war preparations as well as during times of peace. More often than not, the wearer of the mask would also don an elaborate costume to hide their personal identity and add to the religious mysticism of the mask. A professional dancer or masquerader wearing or carrying a mask is commonly dressed in a colorful and spectacular costume. Dancers using the masks strike the ground with sticks to symbolize the characteristic pawing of an antelope or other animal. The movements can also depict the hoeing motion of the farmers. Much of the dancing is performed only by males. The dance associated with wearing Kple. Kple has fast and erratic stamping gestures.

The African masks may be worn on the front of the face, across the entire head much like a helmet, or atop of the head, these masks vary in size, shape, and materials including fabric, metal, various woods. Wood connecting them signifies the strength of the wearer. Abstract painted forms have animal or human figures attached to the top of the mask. Other mediums include backcloth and animal hide or leather.

Unfortunately, ceremonies in African masks are performed far less frequently now, as those African cultures adapt and adopt more western cultures.