gifts for young women

Carved by hand, this colorful mask by Anna Yawson depicts a young man from Ghana. The unique and beautiful image is the artisan's own design. She names it Odartey, a popular men's name in the Ga language.

This exquisite mask by Abdul Aziz Mohamadu represents a bride. Gleaming brass, aluminum and colorful beads adorn the handsome piece. "Such masks are used during wedding ceremonies by the Bemba tribes from Zambia," he explains. "The mask is presented to a young woman along with gifts for her family. When she is presented to the bridegroom's family, she puts on this mask to show that her family accepts her future husband."

Hibiscus wood reveals the smooth features of a lovely young maiden. Caressed by forest leaves, the shy girl's beauty is undeniable. Bali's Eka presents the sweet image carved from hibiscus wood. This wood varies widely in its tones and patterns, thus each mask is an absolutely unique work of art.

In this original design by Christopher Nyasafo of Ghana, he depicts a mask styled after young northern Ghanaian women when they are dressed for their wedding ceremonies. The elongated mask is carved by hand from native sese wood and painted in light blue, off-white and orange. The slender visage is adorned with cotton twine earrings.

The colors of the cord can vary slightly.

Graceful in emerald and gold, this woman wears the unique headdress of the Janger dance. Nyoman Indrawati Subrata of the Subrata Family carves the magnificent mask from crocodile wood, and paints it with vivid detail as she shares one of Bali's dance traditions. The artisan carries on the extraordinary art work of her late father, Nyoman Subrata.

The Janger became popular in the 1920s, as it allows young men and women to dance together. Twelve females sit together, swaying and singing sweetly, while a corresponding number of men execute the aggressive kecak chants and movements of the dance. Eventually, the individuals stand and perform creative routines, the men generally taking on clownish roles while the women present more provocative choreographies.

Features a hook for hanging

Hibiscus wood reveals the smooth features of a young woman. Caressed by floral tendrils, the girl's determination and optimism are evident. Bali's Eka presents the lovely image carved from hibiscus wood. This wood varies widely in its tones and patterns, thus each mask is an absolutely unique work of art.