In Carnival and Mardi Gras masks have multiple
functions- as objects of beauty, to hide the
identity of the wearer and to frighten others. In
African societies, however, the use of the mask
not only includes these attributes, but goes far
beyond them in making the mask a crucial part
of village life. For instance, within the secret
society of the go or leopard, the members
worship and make offerings to a very powerful,
pacifying spirit who is represented by a mask,
the gogle. When worn in ceremonies the mask
becomes an actual bush spirit, and consequently
it is a great honor and responsibility for the
person wearing it.
During ritual ceremonies men appeared in the
form of spirits, dancing and singing, wearing
masks such as this handsome example. It would
have had an immediate and powerful impact on
the audience, who instantly understood it's
significance. Some were intended to be amusing,
joking and playing with the people; others had a
more serious role as escorts of warriors. This
mask is beautifully crafted; its oval face
gracefully curves around into full cheeks, then
quickly comes together in a sharply pointed chin.
The full lips fill the entire space of the chin,
which balances the wide brow. The dual bands of
hair nicely compliment the beaded band across
the forehead. He is commanding and strong, yet
his eyes reveal a gentler, almost impish glint, as
they scan the scene before them. In the
controlled frenzy of ritual dances, supernatural
spirits came alive, briefly, to participate in village
life through the medium of ceremony. To hold
this powerful mask, to place it on the face, is to
feel the exhilaration of a very old rite, as if we
too are participating in a secret ritual of the go.
- (PF.3948)
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