African masks can only be truly appreciated in their African contexts. A study of African masks therefore requires a study of African belief systems. Africans live foremost in syncretic environments. Syncretism is a mental disposition that allows fusion of several beliefs, concepts, and practices. The African carver's syncretic mentality allows him to create masks transcending visual reality.
Totemism is another common practice in Africa.
A totem is usually an animal serving as the emblem of a clan or an ethnic group and often as a reminder of its ancestry. Totems commemorate acts and performances of heroic ancestors. Masks play an important role in totemic rituals. African masks are also used in cosmogonic rituals. Cosmogony deals with the concept of the origin of the universe.