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African Masks Are Carved in Wood and Other Natural Materials.
Most African masks are carved out of wood, although some have been made out of bronze, brass, copper ivory, pottery and textile. Wood is usually chosen partly because it is readily available for African communities. It also has a deeper symbolic meaning – carvers believe the tree has a soul that is carried through into the mask. In some tribes, the mask makers must ask permission from the tree spirit before cutting it down, and make an animal sacrifice in honor of the tree. Some masks are adorned with intricate detail and decoration, including elements of textile, shells, feathers, fur and paint. Occasionally masks are even splashed with sacrificial blood to enhance their spiritual force. The tools used to carve the wooden mask are also embedded with symbolic meaning and tribes believe the tools carry with them the skills and expertise of their previous owners. 🎭🎭🎭🎭
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