African tribal masks are some of the most intricately and finely crafted artworks in the world. The richness of meaning conveyed by them is both intriguing and mystifying. African tribal masks are made of a variety of materials including leather, metal and wood. Each mask has a particular purpose and value that are deep rooted in the traditions. An African tribal mask is a paragon of craftsmanship and eye for detail.
African tribal masks convey:-
- Authority
- Expression and
- Morality
Traditional Values:
African tribal masks are among the most ancient of art forms. And their history dates back to pre Paleolithic times. The skill of crafting tribal masks is handed down from father to son and they are held in high esteem by the tribal community. In African culture only an elite few are authorized to wear them. This emphasizes the importance that tribal masks have in tribal society.
The Spiritual Elevation:
African culture gives importance to tribal masks because they are used as medium to communicate with spirits. During special rituals, the wearer of the mask gain access to the spiritual realm. He transforms into a spiritual entity and becomes part of the nature and cosmos. It is believed that they can communicate with the ancestral spirits of the tribe.
Animals and Nature:
Animals are one of the usual themes of African tribal masks. This is because in African culture, animals are believed to communicate with supernatural beings and spirits of nature as well. Hawk, crocodile and buffalo are the most common animals depicted on tribal masks.
Ceremonial Significance:
African tribal masks are worn on special rituals and ceremonies like wedding, a good harvest, Initiating rituals of boys who are turning into adulthood and the like. For each ceremony there is a specific mask. Some tribes like the Fang people of the Atlantic coast have secret societies and when a new member of is initiated to this society he is made to wear a peculiar mask with a heart like shape. Some African tribal masks are crafted particularly for kings and chiefs of the tribes. These works stand out in its finesse and detail.
Moral Codes:
Apart from ceremonial and ritualistic implications, African tribal masks are excellent records of moral codes of the African people. The Senfou people of ivory coast have masks with half shut eyes implying tranquility and integrity. The Tamne people of Sierra Leone carve with small eyes and mouths in their tribal masks. These are symbols of courtesy and humbleness.
The Printable Mask Shop 