A mask is a single element within a larger cultural context of costume, dance and ritual performed for specific events. The dancer of a particular mask assumes the identity of the spirit it represents and communicates its message.
Masks are often present to instruct during initiation, rites of passage and funerals.
The following 20th century examples are from Burkina Faso. Masks are characteristically black, white, red and representative of animals. The dances are naturalistic in their recreation of animal movements. The paint periodically would be renewed, and the mask worn with brilliantly dyed costumes. All rights reserved.