Have you ever heard of the African Baule bead mask? The Baule mask is a cultural symbol that has been around for centuries. The Baule people, who are from the Ivory Coast and Ghana, first began making these masks more than 1,000 years ago. Where were you 1,000 years ago? Not even in the idea of conception! They were used in ceremonies to honor the dead and the cycle of life. You see, the cycle of life in Africa is not just about the birth and death of people, but also about the changing seasons, nature and wildlife. The Baule people believe that the mask is a representation of the human soul. African masks show the powerful cultural legacy of...
A tale is told of a great civilization that existed two centuries ago. On the coast of the Gulf of Guinea in West Africa, a very rich kingdom was formed. The Kingdom of Ashanti. It was established by the Asantehene Osei Tutu I. Ruler after ruler in order of succession, they formed bigger kingdoms and expanded their borders for about 200 years, until the British took over. What makes Ghana so special is that today, it is one of the leading countries of Africa, partly because of its considerable natural wealth and partly because it was the first black African country south of the Sahara to achieve independence from colonial rule. The availability of gold in the area got Ghana the name ‘The...
Traditional masks have been used all over the world as a form of communication and storytelling. Masks can be made from a variety of materials, including wood, metal, fabric, feathers and more. They are often adorned with intricate designs and symbols that tell a story about the culture or tribe that created them. Let's take a closer look at some traditional tribal masks and learn about the meaning behind their designs!
Tribal masks have been used throughout history as far back as ancient times. They were believed to be magical or able to bring good luck, and tribes often wore them during special occasions such as weddings and celebrations. Many tribes believe that spirits inhabit these masks, and each type of mask has its own personality traits depending on where it is made. For example, some tribal symbols represent wisdom or courage.
When trying to determine which antique African mask to purchase, there is a lot you should consider and research before making the purchase. Many masks may seem like good deals, but they may have cracks or issues that you aren't able to see in person with just one look. There are many important questions you need to ask yourself when looking for African Masks such as:
