Zoomorphic Masquerades

Zoomorphic Masquerades assume abstract portrayal of animals.  More often than not, the animal masks may have a blend of animal and human characteristics.  This elephant masquerader has more realistic animal features with beadwork, cowries and sequins as the main adornments.  Two types of raffia were used to complete the mask.

abstract zoomorphic masks could be portrayed like these

Elephant Mask using the front panel and hood for the large ears and trunk

 

or in the example of a wolf

                                                  or an even more abstract animal spirit