african art

Master carver Christopher Nyasafo faithfully replicates the legendary mask of the Kwele people in Gabon, Cameroon and the Republic of Congo. It features two long horns that encircle the face with a heart-shaped aura. The masks are regarded as highly protective and are controlled by the Bwete Association, who maintains social order. They are used in ceremonies which promote well-being and community. Nyasafo carves the sese wood wall mask by hand and paints it blue, white, brown, and light orange.

This replica mask of powerful beauty is known as kwifibe by the Songye people of the Democratic Republic of Congo. Distinguished by its black and white stripes, the mask is believed to embody supernatural forces that will ward off evil. To the Songye, the use of white on the mask symbolizes positive concepts such as purity and peace, the moon and light. Ghana's Christopher Nyasafo carves the wall mask by hand featuring a bird looking downward.

Christopher Nyasafo replicates the legendary Kwele mask with a feast of colors. This style of mask is from the Kwele people in Gabon, Cameroon and the Republic of Congo and features two long horns that encircle the face with a heart-shaped aura. The masks are regarded as highly protective and are controlled by the Bwete Association, who maintains social order. They are used in ceremonies which promote well-being and community. Nyasafo carves the sese wood wall mask by hand and paints it brown, yellow, green, red and grey.

A master of traditional African design, Godfred France creates a mask that arises from his own imagination. Its serene circular shape is harmonious, balanced by big round eyes and a gently rounded mouth. But it is the rich repoussé ornamentation that distinguishes this handcrafted work of art. It is named Gratu, a Hausa word that means "protection."

Kangaroos symbolize ambition and protection, making their image a good sign for heroic souls. Inspired by these strong creatures, Ghanaian artisan George Asante uses sese wood and ceramic to create this traditional African mask in a classic palette of blue and brown hues. As the final touch, aluminum plates add a lustrous touch to the accessory, with an embossed Kangaroo detail at the center.