Wood mask, 'Great Monkey Spirit'

Salihu Ibrahim carves the vivid visage of a monkey, influenced by the artistic stylizations of the Nuna tribe. Hailing from Burkina Faso, the Nuna families and clans honor the animal spirits living around them; they believe these spirits are powerful so they seek their protection and blessings. Ibrahim uses polish and kola nut to embellish this sese wood mask.