When old customs meet ways of the modern world, we find that many Africans have learned of Christianity. Despite this, the African tribal masks and what they are used for, continue to play a role in the lives of these peoples. Ceremonies continue to be played out and the two realms are separate but necessary parts of their culture and existence.

Those who study tribal ways not only see these items as art but learn the meaning behind the mask and what it stands for. Being part of an entire costume, it rarely survives the test of time, so what others see is merely a replica of the once real thing. Yet others are destroyed when the ritual has been played out and the need for the mask has been met.

Many have been amazed at the similar customs that prevail in all the tribes when they have had no contact with each other. Making use of facial covering for their many rituals plays a vital part in their customs. Typically it is the healer, or shaman, that wears the face covering. It is he that works to provide a means of contacting the spirits that have passed on. They are contacted for guidance of both present and future events.

Even in today's copies, these facial coverings will emit the power of magic. Not necessarily because a person believes in their power, but rather the belief held in them by ancient and modern tribe rituals. Despite the pagan view held by so many, it is by masking that the shaman can reveal his magic.

Even the individual tribe had many different styles of face coverings that were used. This was due to the fact that they believed each mask had to be different to fulfill its chosen purpose in a ceremony. One ceremony may be for the cure of illness while another is said to be used for prosperity among the people. The reasons are as varied as the masks themselves.

Those who were the sculptures of these masks were trained in the work by elders who had performed the duty for years before them. Once this task was handed down to a younger member, he then became the one highly respected by his people. They not only created the mask but also knew every marking and coloring that had to be used depending on the ritual to be performed.

Material used was as varied as the reasons the face covering was made. They could be created making use of stone, wood, metal, and ivory. Bones from animals were often carved and added to the adorned piece. Every detail down to the smallest marking had a reason to be there. Even hair was added to complete the mask.

To truly appreciate the African tribal masks, one has to delve deeply into the customs of each tribe. Only here can it be learned exactly what these coverings were meant to do. Once you begin to understand what each represents, you can truly appreciate the culture and beliefs that each tribe took part in. Each and every one had a specific reason for existing. Some replicas are used to adorn the home of those that have a true interest in this form of ceremonial head dress.