The Function of an African Mask

In the early 20th century, artists such as Pablo Picasso and Andre Derain were inspired by the bold and abstract design seen in African tribal masks. They collect and use these works of art to influence their cubism and the style of Forvist. In fact, they use African culture to recreate the tired tradition of figure painting in Western art.

Therefore, we now tend to appreciate the bold design and abstract patterns of African masks through the eyes of Europeans. As the exhibits on the walls of museums, they are very different from their original meanings and magical powers. But this is not the way they designed

African masks should be regarded as part of ritual costumes. They are used for religious and social activities to represent the soul of their ancestors and to dominate the forces of good and evil of the community. Their lives, their spirit are owned by dance performances, and are enhanced by the music and atmosphere at that time. Some people combine the characteristics of people and animals to connect people and the environment of nature. This connection to nature is very important for Africans and people are accustomed to using masks to express this relationship among generations.

The history of the African mask dates back to the Paleolithic age. These masks play an important role in African culture. In the past, masks were used in various rituals. These masks are made of metal, wood, cloth and so on. Their unique design, and most importantly, the idea of ​​making these masks make African masks an important place for world-famous art galleries. Art history enthusiasts and collectors are also interested in collecting these masks as well. World famous painter Picasso met Africa mask in 1907 and was surprised at its design and meaning.

African masks are mostly shaped like a face or a specific animal tone. The African culture is very stylized to distinguish something's appearance from its essence. These masks are used to represent abstract themes that describe styling. Animals are a common theme in the art of mask making Africa. They represent the spirit of animals, animals hold masks and themselves become animals, for example allowing communication with animals by keeping animals away from the village. In other cases, animals are a symbol of virtue. The most common animals represented by masks are Buffalo, Hyena, Eagle, Alligator, Antelope. Antelope is one of the most widely used animal masks. It symbolizes agriculture and is worn to achieve better crops. Horn represents the growth of millet, the root of a plant, and the ear represents a song that women sing during harvesting. The mask representing the value can also be in the form of a human