African masks are considered works of art and are highly sought after by art collectors.  Many of the finest masks can be viewed in art galleries and museums around the world.  They are made of a variety of materials including metal, fabric, leather and different types of wood.  They are unique to each specific African society and their shape and accessories have special meanings for different cultures. 

A dancer wears a mask during initiations, crop harvests, ceremonies, and celebrations.  A mask can be worn in different ways:  vertically covering the face, encasing the entire head like a helmet, and like a crest resting upon the head.  African masks represent gods, spirits of ancestors, mythological beings, good or evil, the dead, animal spirits, and other beings believed to have power over humans.  When an African mask represents a spirit, it is believed that the spirit of the ancestor possesses the wearer.

Use the link above to go to the Mask Gallery where you will see some examples of African masks and the next step in your investigation of these tribal faces of Africa!