- Religious ceremonies and rituals: Masks were often used in ceremonies to invoke spirits, communicate with the dead, or to celebrate special events.
- Social control and justice: Masks were used to enforce social norms and laws. For example, a mask representing an authority figure could be used to settle disputes or punish criminals.
- Entertainment and education: Masks were used in performances and dances, and could be used to teach moral lessons or provide historical information.
- Healing and medicine: Some masks were used by healers and medicine men to assist in healing rituals or to treat illnesses.
- Gender and role identification: Masks could be used to mark different gender roles or social status, and could be used to change or obscure a person's identity.
- Art and self-expression: Masks could be highly artistic and could be used to express cultural values and beliefs.