I just purchased some masks hand crafted from Ghana are there any meanings for them?

Answer 1

Almost all masks (except for those that are made specifically for tourists) are significant in African culture; and especially sub-Saharan Africa. Masks are used in "masking" or "masquerade" ceremonies, and are combined with costumes and dance. These ceremonies are a profound part of special and/or seasonal events: harvest, transition from childhood to man/womanhood, funerals, fertility rituals, etc. Each mask is specific to a particular people and then to a particular event.

To learn more about your specific masks, I'd recommend that you visit your local university, and seek out someone in the African Studies department. Also check out the Art History department. Most (major) universities have at least one person who is very knowledgable about African art, culture, and ceremonies.

If this comes up short, visit your local library or African art museum (if you're fortunate to have one nearby).

Good luck with your quest! Sure wish I could have seen some photos of your masks--that would have helped :)

Answer 2

Of course, get them to a museum where there should be an African arets curator