Wanyugo masks are put on during funeral ceremonials of the Poro initiatory group, and enable the dead to get in touch with the spirit world. Their role is actually to protect the village from evil spirits, from witchcraft, and to repel misfortune and illness. Originating from the sacred wood, forbears and forest spirits ' sancturay, this mask was worn by a Poro initiate. This very powerful society of which dignitaries speak a secret language, plays a key role in the community.It weaves brotherhood and assistance ties among same -aged and same-rank members of a class - the Poro being divided among three ranks, each of them divided into several degrees - This mask draws its power in a complexe iconographic association : the robustness of buffalo, the wisdom of antelope, the aggressiveness of warthog, and the strength of the crocodile.