In Africa we have a wide variety of masks from different tribes and cultures. To bring some clarity and understanding it is helpful to classify them into roughly 4 basic types.
Headdress:
Artists carve cephalomorphic and zoomorphic mask. The headdress and masks are covered with antelope skin this is one of the main characteristics associated with this tribe. The basket at the base is the shape of the top portion of the head. The costume is normally made of plant fiber and or raffia and covers the entire body of the mask bearer.
Face mask:
This is the most common type found throughout Africa. The mask covers the face and has holes along the side. Before the wearer dons the costume his assistants will rub his/her body with a covering of natural oil, this serve as protection against evil spirits. The mask is then placed over the face and attached to the head opening of the costume. Thereafter a skirt made of vegetable fibers is attached around the waist. In some instances the entire body is covered with fiber or raffia.
Horizontal plank mask:
Bwa tribe Burkino Faso, these types of masks is worn on top of the head and it resembles an owl or bird in flight. The underside is carved to the shape of the head.
Body or Belly Mask: From the Makonde tribe, Southeastern Tanzania. Carved from a solid tree trunk the hollow fits to the fron of the body. The mask is normally part of the costume of a Ndimu masker and are normally worn by a male masquerader together with a matching face mask.
