Final answer:
The Aka elephant mask is a significant cultural artifact in Bamileke society, symbolizing the wearer's elite status and wealth, the king's supernatural power, and helping maintain social harmony through public ceremonies.
Step-by-step explanation:
The Aka elephant mask in Bamileke society functions as a display of wealth and status. It is used by the Kuosi masking society, which comprises elite members, warriors, and wealthy titled men who have donated significantly to the kingdom's well-being. The mask is a richly decorated piece made of materials like beads, cloth, and cowrie shells, with intricate designs signifying the high social status of its wearer. Apart from its aesthetic allure, the mask serves as an object of social control, symbolizing the supernatural power of the Bamileke king and affirming the social hierarchy within the community. During public ceremonies and rituals, the mask is worn to bring about social harmony by reinforcing the societal norms and cultural identity of the Bamileke people.