Face protection

Bill M · 23rd September 2008, 04:50 AM

I have several African "helmet masks" that cover the face from, Mambilla, Senofu, Igbo, Benin, Yaka, Burkino Faso, Bamana cultures -- but none that would offer much protection in battle.

Mine are of wood with leather and/or rattan, often shells -- cowrie being most popular -- embellishments.

These were all used in rituals. Most are designed to help the wearer achieve an altered state where he (or she, in the case of the Mende), became something more than just a person wearing the mask.

23rd September 2008, 04:50 AM	#7
Bill M Member Join Date: Mar 2005 Location: USA Georgia Posts: 1,599	I have several African "helmet masks" that cover the face from, Mambilla, Senofu, Igbo, Benin, Yaka, Burkino Faso, Bamana cultures -- but none that would offer much protection in battle. Mine are of wood with leather and/or rattan, often shells -- cowrie being most popular -- embellishments. These were all used in rituals. Most are designed to help the wearer achieve an altered state where he (or she, in the case of the Mende), became something more than just a person wearing the mask.