MASKS african masks statue art tribal masks

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Ritual masks generally depict Gods,  deities, Ancestor’s Spirits, Mythological beings, good and or evil  spirits, the dead, animal spirits, and any other spirits believed to  have power over humans. Many Spirits may be honored with ceremonies and  gifts. 

Tribal Masks can be traced back to  well past Paleolithic times. Masks were, and are still made of various  materials, included is leather, metal, fabric and various types of wood.  The masks were part of full costumes and were used with music and dance  in ritual performances for Protection, social control, education of the  young, enhanced fertility or success, divination, status and  entertainment. The figures usually depicted ancestors or spirits; most  were venerated and offered prayers and sacrifices in exchange for  protection and well-being. Some objects were felt to be magical and were  believed to have great powers.

These  spirits may be perceived via the carvings of the mask. Worldwide in  drama and dance, masks are worn to enhance the story and to clarify the  emotions being expressed. Always, masks intensify and heighten the  experience, whatever the intention of the wearer of the mask is. Click photo on this page  to shop for masks for sale