rn1+masks+used+for+in+Ibo+culture

The Masks were traced back past the Paleolithic Times. They were made out of materials like metal, fabric, leather, and wood. African Mask are considered great pieces of art and are highly wanted by art collectors. During special celebrations, like initiations, crop harvesting, war preparation, peace and trouble times, the masks are worn by specific dancers and can be worn in three different days. Number one, vertically, number two, like a helmet, fully covering the full head, and lastly as a crest which is resting upon the head. The Africans believed that the masks represented a spirit and whoever wore the mask possessed the spirit.

Pictures of Mask: http://www.rebirth.co.za/masks2.htm

The ritual ceremonies generally represent gods, the dead, animal spirits, spirits of ancestors, good, evil, mythological beings, and other being that are believed to have power over humanity. Masks of human ancestors are considered family pride. When the masks are regarded as the living of the spirits they represent, the masks can be honored with ceremonies and gifts.