Scarification

Scarification is used in many tribes in Africa, and is done by using a sharp object, for example a piece of glass, a knife or a stone, and slicing the skin in different ways to create scars in different directions of various shapes and sizes. After the scarification is done, a method called Cicatrisation is sometimes practised. This method involves causing irritation to the skin after the cut has been made, by putting caustic plant extracts onto the skin forming permanent blisters. 

Scarification can not only be shown on the bodies and faces of west african tribes but also on pottery, carvings and sculptures. For example the pot shown below from a book called North American Art:

The location of the tribe depends on to what it extent the scarification is done. For example in Ghana the scarring is usually more minimal and only on the faces whereas in Nigeria a whole body may be scarred with intricate designs. Scarification can mean many things, to show strength and social status and identity, and especially for women, can make them more attractive to men. This is because it can imply that because the women have gone through this much pain of scarification and would therefore be able to withstand the pain of childbirth. 

Below are some images and video links that show scarification in action: