African Masks | Structure, Types & Meaning

One of the most amazing ceremonies in dance, costume and ritual can be seen in the Mask Dances done by the DOGON people of Western Africa/Mali. The Dogon perform with their dancing masks to honor the passing of a respected elder. This "dama" dance ceremony will often last for three days and involve dozens of dancers representing figures from the animal world, male and female powers, and the afterworld. Once the dama dance has been performed, the aged bones of the elder are placed high in the win

African Masks Examined: History, Type, Role, Meaning & Examples