Masks
Wood mask, \'Arches\'
This enchanting piece by Ernestina Oppong is adapted from a traditional design of the Dan people of Cote d\'Ivoire. Ancient masks of this type were worn on various occasions, especially used for dancing during festivals and ceremonies.
Wood masks, \'Baoule Asafo\' (pair)
Elongated headdresses implying extraordinary power, these exquisite masks by George Asante represent asafo, or warriors.
Wood mask, \'Brave and Strong\'
This face of solemn expression bears on its head the image of an elephant. For the Guro people of the Ivory Coast, this mask signifies strength and bravery.
Ivorian mask, \'Fertility Bird\'
The bird atop this mask augurs fertility, according to Senufo beliefs. The Senufo people of Ivory Coast, Mali, and Burkina Faso wear this mask during childbearing and fertility rituals.
Wood mask, \'Dan Ghost\'
This ghost mask of the Dan tribe is used as a guardian spirit, believed to possess the good elements necessary to ward off evil spirits that try to inflict harm on society. Louis K.
Wood mask, \'Flying Spirit\'
Crowned with double horns, this mask by Salihu Ibrahim depicts a bird that represents a flying spirit. The design comes from the Bwa tribe of C�te d\'Ivoire, and these spirits are portrayed with geometric shapes as they have no physical form.
Wood mask, \'Protection and Blessings\'
Crowned with the image of a crested bird, this mask symbolizes protection and blessings. Salihu Ibrahim carves the sese wood mask in the artistic tradition of the Guro tribe from the Ivory Coast.
Wood mask, \'Spirit that Flies\'
A checkerboard pattern tops this intriguing carving by Salihu Ibrahim. Shaped like a chirping bird, it features a single horn. The design comes from the Bwa tribe of C�te d\'Ivoire, and these \"flying spirits\" are portrayed with geometric shapes as they have no physical form.
Ivorian mask, \'Honor to Ancestors\'
The distinctive stylizations of this sese wood mask evoke the tribal artistry of the Baule people, from Ivory Coast. Salihu Ibrahim presents an admirable replica as he carves the mask by hand.
Ivorian mask, \'Peacemaker\'
The detailed artistry of this mask reveals the wise and solemn face of a Guro woman. Featuring a bird looking downwards, the mask is worn during important ceremonies to resolve quarrels and to detect sorcerers.