artisan masks

An aristocratic demeanor and opulent earrings distinguish this ancient Maya mask necklace. By Pablo Castellanos, it depicts a mask that dates from 527 A.D., discovered in Tomb 160 in Tikal. Such masks were placed in burials to be worn by the spirit of the deceased king in his journey through the underworld.

The Guatemalan artisan crafts the pendant of sterling silver to grace a necklace of black cotton cords.

Inspired by traditional African masks, Robert Aidoo-Taylor creates this unique necklace. The pendant is hand-carved from sese wood and the cord features a sliding knot clasp. The Ghanaian artist calls this necklace Onua Do, which means "brotherly love" in the Akan language.

For this necklace, Robert Aidoo-Taylor designs a stylized female mask in yellow, brown and black which he calls Manubea, a traditional Akan name. The Ghanaian artisan carves the sese wood pendant by hand with experienced mastery and sets it on a black cord necklace that can be worn at the desired length through a sliding knot.

Robert Aidoo-Taylor designs a collection of necklaces for men inspired by the masks worn by the people of New Guinea, specifically around the Sepik River. The masks denote social and spiritual significance, so Aidoo-Taylor dedicates this design to Adam, the first man according to the Bible. The Ghanaian artisan carves the ofram wood pendant by hand and decorates it with painted details in green, brown and black. The pendant is worn on an adjustable black cord.

Robert Aidoo-Taylor designs a collection of necklaces for men inspired by the masks worn by the people of New Guinea, specifically around the Sepik River. The masks denote social and spiritual significance, so Aidoo-Taylor dedicates this design to the men who were born on a Friday, who are usually named Danjuma. The Ghanaian artisan carves the ofram wood pendant by hand and decorates it with painted details. The pendant is worn on an adjustable black cord.