Bamileke Elephant Masks are used by high-ranking members of Bamileke secret societies of Cameroon during traditional ceremonies or initiation rites. These masks are made out of wood and usually have two large tusks protruding from the sides.
The masks are usually brightly colored and are decorated with fabrics, feathers, and beads. The Bamileke people believe that these masks represent the spirits of their ancestors and that they help to protect the initiates during the ceremony.
See also: “Fattening Room” (Nkugho, Mbopo and Mbobo in Efik, Ibibio and Annang respectively)
Bamileke elephant masks which symbolize power, wealth, and royalty are highly revered by the Bamileke people and are only worn by those who have been initiated into the Bamileke secret societies.
Similar to other Traditional African masks, the Cameroonian mask plays an important role in certain traditional African rituals and ceremonies, including funerals, initiation rites, and harvest celebrations. When not in use, the masks are kept in special shrine rooms where they are cared for by Bamileke priests.
