The very essence of MAKISHI is the summoning and reincarnation through the medium of mask and costume, of a particular creature or kinship ancestor from the spirit world to perform specific functions amongst the living during important social and cultural events. Makishi reinforce ties with the past and reminds people of their history, culture and the role of the individual in society. Those makishi that feature prominently in the cultural life of the Luvale, Chokwe, Mbunda and Luchazi of north-western Zambia (and neighboring Angola and Congo) evoke powerful and vivid images of a fascinating culture and history.