In Africa
masks can be traced back to well past Paleolithic times. These art objects
were, and are still made of various materials, included are leather, metal,
fabric and various types of wood.
African
masks are considered amongst the finest creations in the art world and are
highly sought after by art collectors. Many of the pieces some replica's,
can be viewed in museums and art galleries in many parts of the world.
Masking ceremonies in Africa have great cultural and traditional
significance. Latest developments and understanding of Aesthetic
principles, religious and ceremonial values, have brought about a greater insight
into the ideas and moral values that African artists express in their art.
During celebrations, initiations, crop
harvesting, war preparation, peace and trouble times, African masks are worn
by a chosen or initiated dancer. It can be worn in three different ways:
vertically covering the face: as helmets, encasing the entire head, and as
crest, resting upon the head, which was commonly covered by material as part
of the disguise. African masks often represent a spirit and it is strongly
believed that the spirit of the ancestors possesses the wearer.
Ritual
ceremonies generally depict deities, spirits of ancestors, mythological
beings, good and or evil, the dead, animal spirits, and other beings
believed to have power over humanity. Masks of human ancestors or totem
ancestors (beings or animals to which a clan or family traces its ancestry)
are often objects of family pride; when they are regarded as the dwelling of
the spirit they represent, the masks may be honored with ceremonies and
gifts.
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| African mask history
