The Mbuya masks of the Pende can represent a wide cast of characters ranging from sorcerers and chiefs to chiefly wives and temptresses. Made of wood and raffia, the masks are generally accompanied by a raffia skirt and dancers perform in both secular and sacred contexts. Performers would hold objects in their hands that related to the characteristics of the mask. For instance, masks that evoked leadership would be accompanied by fly whisks. These characteristics were also reinforced by the accompanying songs and dances associated with the mask.

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