This mask belongs to the category of runners, fire-watchers or village guardians known as 'sagbwe' - a term that can be translated as 'son of the bird with the long beak'. In Douwé, this mask called 'Father Panther' or 'The Supreme Authority' fulfilled the role of leader of all the fire-watchers. When performing, 'Father Panther' always carried a small bronze bell, to warn the villagers of his approach. His task was to track down malevolent spirits and sorcerers and to punish them with death, if necessary. He was also called on as a recognized healer, particularly to deal with cases of female infertility.
