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African tribal art is representative of some sort of spirit related to nature, religion and human existence. True African tribal art is created by one who has benefited from years of apprenticeship, guidance and practice. He has been learned specific carving techniques and most the spiritual significance of his craft. The artist producing african tribal art is highly respected by his tribe because of the significance that his work plays in daily life of the tribe. The creation of the tribal masks, sculptures and figures that are used in various ceremonies, rituals and initiations of the tribe is his role and function within the tribe. So african tribal art was always a key issue for all involved people in the tribe.

Production and Use of African Tribal Art

The production of african masks for ceremonial or ritualistic purposes is widespread across the continent of Africa. As Africa is so big, with many different tribes, cultures and groups, there are also many subtypes of African masks and artwork. The face mask is one of the most frequent african masks. It is not attached direct to the front of the face, but is usually held in front of the face as a piece of a larger costume or head covering.

Important is the use of these african masks and the relation to religion and spirit. This spirit becomes visible in form of the african masks typical for the dancers. This dancer is carefully choosen from the tribe and is trained specifically for this purpose. This is also important: Masking ceremonies involves the chosen dancer speaking and hearing from the ancestors. This happens as the dancer goes into a trance like state.

African figures

Like the masks the african figures were used for various functions. Figures in African art usually show humans or animals and are mainly ancestor figures, fetishes or dolls. Carving figures the artist followed the traditional style more consequent than producing masks. It makes sense to separate between the following main groups of carvings:

• old and authentic African figures made for use in the tribe
• good quality copies for museums and collectors
• cheap tourist copies

Ancestor figures are used as a spiritual or ceremonial stand-in for the spirit of the deceased. They contain signs of recognition for the coming spirit of the ancestor. The figures are decorated and will have food and drinking. The storage of the figures is different- sometime in the field for a good crop, in front of the house to protect the family or inside in a shrine.

African Fetishes have a magical power obtained in special rituals. African Fetishes are needed frequently for protection, for example from illness or protection during pregnancy. But African Fetishes can also bring luck like pregnancy or success for hunting.