Differentiating tribal artistic traditions within Tanzania is something of a challenge as the tenets of each group are not fully understood. They served variable functions, associated with harvests, lineage/ancestor worship and fertility in rituals that were described by early explorers but which are now rare or extinct. The (Wa)Hehe were especially militaristic, and it is possible that this mask was involved in some way with this aspect of their lives, especially given its rather fearsome appearance. The patination on this piece is extremely deep, implying a long use history and thus considerable social importance.