Woyo masks
African ritual object From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Woyo masks, often called ndunga or bandunga,[1] are ritual masks made by the Woyo people of Central Africa. The people of this area were called Ngoyo by Europeans.[2]
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Materials and Meaning
The Woyo masks are crafted from gourds.[3] Then they are carved out of wood for use, and painted with contrasting colors.[4] The colors used had symbolic meaning and were sometimes repainted, symbolizing rebirth, or to restore the power of the mask.[4] They are also decorated with sacred objects known as nkissi.[5]The masks were worn mostly by men in ceremonial dances known as the ndunga. They were also used in various ceremonies like those aimed to protect against disaster, an initiation of a chief or funerals of high-ranking officials.[3]
External links
References
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