The leopard skin is possibly an indication of the type of spiritual power from which this particular mask draws. It symbolises the origin of the mask's supernatural power. The leopard is an animal strongly associated with political authority within many cultures in Africa. As particularly intelligent and courageous animals, they symbolise leadership and the lofty political and social qualities of those in power.
Because as a predator they also hunt humans, leopards are also associated with individuals and organisations that have the authority to literally and figuratively 'take human lives'. Furthermore, leopards are often considered the animal equivalent of the 'leader' in society charged with maintaining law and order. Most probably, therefore, this mask belongs to one of the two types of Wee masks with a social function and had the task of maintaining order, calm and peace during important events. Thus, it had to contribute to the overall social balance.