African Mask

On cti.itc.virginia.edu it said that an African mask can represent a spiritual being, dead ancestors, and the power of social control. Each mask was made for a tradition and worn by a professional performer. The performances with these masks were ceremonial that showed social, religious and morals of the community. On sprott.physics.wisc.edu it explained that these masks could be used for religious or involve spirits of the dead, but it could also concern fertility rates and curing the sick, as well as celebrating. Some masks were used to keep required balance like using masks that represented harmful spirits. Scary masks were used to punish women, children, and criminals. On rebirth.co.za it expressed that these masks were made of leather, medal, fabric, and wood. The masks are looked at as the finest art on the art world and many collectors want them. The masks were used for cultural and social importance. The masks can be worn in three different ways covering the face vertically, as helmets covering the head, or crests resting on the head. It was believed that that spirit possessed the people wearing ancestor masks.  The performer was also communicating with the ancestor when they went into their deep trance. On en.wikipedia.org it stated that masks had different meanings depending on the tribes. Masks showed what is expected of feminine beauty. Masks were made to look like humans, animals, and spirits. African masks are interesting and show the beliefs of a tribe.