Ivory Coast & Mali
Wood mask, 'True Courage'
This mask, skillfully hewn by Robert Nortey and the artisans of Robanty Limited, symbolizes courage.
Wood mask, 'Scorpion Curse'
For this mask, Evans Doe Martey finds inspiration in the beliefs and customs of the Baoule people of the Ivory Coast. It features the face of a woman carved on a leaf together with the image of a scorpion.
Wood mask, 'Spirit of Love'
Slanting eyes are defined in red in an antique style mask by Evans Doe Martey. Carving the fluid form from sese wood, he depicts a spirit of the Dogon tribe. It represents a caring spirit that gives love.
Malian wood mask, 'Bambara Chameleon'
A chameleon slithers down the central horn on a mask from Mali's Bambara tribe. Known to be peaceful reptiles, chameleons change their color to blend unnoticed with their setting.
Ivorian wood mask, 'Baule Warrior'
This attractive mask by Salihu Ibrahim personifies a brave Baule warrior from Ivory Coast. He carves the sese wood mask by hand featuring long horns and slightly closed eyes. The mask is worn once a year to commemorate war victories.
Wood mask, 'Mystery and Spirit'
Lines, angles, and contours blend in visual harmony on this stunning sese wood mask by Daniel Nyadedzor. Hammered aluminum plates embellish the forehead andcheeks in this fine example of Baule art. Baoule art is recognized for its elegant forms and exceptional craftsmanship.
Wood mask, 'Ancient Baule Warrior'
An empowered expression defines this mask by Ernestina Oppong Asante. Featuring the face of an ancient warrior, its style originates from the Baule people of Cote d'Ivoire.
Wood mask, 'Tigari Psychic'
Salihu Ibrahim carves a faithful replica of the Tigari mask uncovered in 1890, in Ghana. Of Moshie origin, a Tigari was person especially endowed with psychic powers.
Wood mask, 'Scorpion Vigil'
Salihu Ibrahim carves an extraordinary replica of a Guro tribal mask, featuring the raised tail of a scorpion. It symbolizes vigilance and it is also intended to scare enemies away.
Wood mask, 'Bravery of the Goat'
Tall antelope horns and curling ram horns adorn this Guro mask, believed to invoke the spirits of the underworld. This image by Salihu Ibrahim symbolizes great bravery. Emerging from the features of a goat, a human face forms a link between the living and their ancestors.