Masks are a very important part of the Dogon culture and they can be seen quite often as you travel through the area. But where they really play an important role is in the religious ceremonies and dances. The most important ceremony is the Sigui, which is performed every 60 years. The last one was in the 1960s. While we visited Dogon, we were fortunate to be able to witness a dance ceremony. Set out below are the different masks that are used in the dance.
Tingi Tingi: represents a young girl.
Sigi: Used in the ceremony performed every 60 years.
Kanaga: represents the earth and the sky.
Antelope: represents the hunters.
Furakela: represents the bush doctors.
Satumbi: the mother of all masks.
Kalao: represents the rainy season.