Description

Passport masks were used by the populations of Africa before the arrival of Europeans on the African continent. They served as identity cards and passports for moving within the territory.

Once used by travelers as a means of communication with local peoples, these masks served to gain acceptance and prove one's identity. They also revealed each individual's social standing within the village or tribe. They were used to distinguish between different professions. People possessing passport masks of a uniform color were considered advisors or masters.

These African passport masks have therefore become an essential symbol of Africa and its cultural heritage.