artisan masks

Beautifully mysterious and enigmatic, this replica of the forest spirit mask bears the artistry of the Bantu people. They live in several communities that spread from Africa's Great Lakes region all the way down to South Africa. To the Bantu, masks with off-white faces represent the spirits of their ancestors and were often worn by dancers on stilts during funeral rituals. Working with sese wood, Ghana's Christopher Nyasafo faithfully replicates the mask in off-white, red and black featuring stone and cotton twine earrings. A second smaller face wears recycled glass earrings.

Abstract formations adorned with the exquisite batik details of the Javanese islands add enchanting beauty and magical magnificence to this traditional mask by Gunadi. The artisan draws inspiration from the region's classic arts to create this pule wood artwork, whose sinuous details imitate the island's forests while composing the charming face of a woman. The mask is also equipped with a nylon cord to hang it elegantly.

Red, black and yellow hues create a regal depiction of a noble woman's face adorned with hibiscus flowers. Javanese artist Gunadi uses batik techniques to bring this lady's beauty to life in the form of a traditional mask that honours the region's traditions and stunning nature. Made from pule wood, the mask also has a nylon cord to display its beauty in all its splendor.

Atanpoka means “female warrior” in the ancient East African language, explaining the motivation for Ghanaian artisan Victor Ayambire to create this stunning sese wood mask. Inspired by women and their courageous spirit, the artisan handcrafts each detail with dedication, painting the design with a vibrant palette and adding aluminium plates for a traditional vibe.

With a defiant look in her eyes, a nude woman crouches, gazing at something unseen. Balinese artist Aricadia paints the nude in his characteristic style, with bold splashes of primary colors filling the canvas. "The world is like a theatre," says Aricadia. "Many roles and masks we have been through and wear. How far we can go is dependent on how we play along."