Visual Culture: Ten Traditional Mas Characters You’ll Find At Trinidad Carnival

February 8, 2016


MOKO JUMBIE
trinidad-carnival-moko-jumbie

Historically linked to African masquerade, these stilt-walking entities were said to seek out evil in villages as well as among men, going so far as to sense evil thoughts. Today, the moko jumbie plays a large role in Carnival culture. More of a dancing character than a theatrical one, he can be seen during the season at fetes as well as traditional mas parades. The art of stilt walking is still taught in Trinidad by veterans of the form.