Igbo Masks

Purpose

• Masks are usually made of wood and/or fabric

• Namely: – social satires – sacred rituals (for ancestors and invocation of

the gods)– initiation – second burials – public festivals

Diversity• Because of their tribal

diversity, Ibo people have embraced a great variety of beliefs and art styles from neighboring tribes.

• The wide variety of cultural influences from regional tribes creates rich cultural diversity, as well as diversity of masks

Maiden Masks

• Represents the spirits of deceased maidens and their mothers

• Symbolizes beauty and peacefulness

• Common characteristics found on the masks are- – finely sculptured thin and small

well-placed women's features, which are accentuated by tattoos

– A large and elaborate headdress

It’s Your Turn!

•Using your blank mask sheet, create a maiden mask that represents a special female in your life. If you’re a female, you may make a mask for yourself.• Refer to the characteristics of Maiden Masks on the previous slide, as well as the photographs on the next slide to help you. •Be sure to color or lightly shade your maiden mask, and briefly explain who you chose to represent and why.