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Juliana Akandas designs a mask depicting a girl with bead and red cotton earrings. Embossed brass adorns her face and she smiles with excitement. From the Lwalwa tribe of southeastern Congo, such masks are presented to girls during their puberty rites. They show that the teens have reached womanhood. Both boys and girls go through initiation to become responsible adult members of Lwalwa society, but masks are worn only during male Ngongo initiation.
You can find our congolese wood Africa mask 'Pride of Womanhood' by Juliana Akandas in categories such as Congo Zaire Masks and Wood Masks. Enjoy exploring these sections for other Novica treasures.
Microcredit Financing
Juliana Akandas has received 2 microcredit loans with 0% interest from Kiva and Novica, the first for $1500 and the most recent for $500. Proceeds were used to purchase wood and paint in bulk for her wood carvings.
Preserving Traditions
This artist uses traditional techniques handed down through the generations and/or creates culturally significant items, helping keep these traditions alive.
Job Creator
This artist positively impacts their community through job creation and provides jobs for 2 or more people.
Empowering Women
The Women's Empowerment badge is awarded to female artisans or artisan groups that are led by women.
Profound Impact
Every purchase from this artist has a profound impact on their livelihood and income.
Moving On Up
This artist has dramatically improved their livelihood by working with NOVICA.
"My favorite piece is the Akuabaa doll. It is believed that, when given this doll, any woman who cannot have babies is likely to get pregnant."
"I was born April 13, 1969; I am happily married, with three children. After secondary school, I became interested in Ghanaian carvings when I... read more