By Abdul Aziz Mohamadu, this bold mask is decorated with colorful seed beads, while an elongated forehead lends it an air of authority. "This mask is used by the Kabogie people in Kontagora...read more
A serious expression belies the joy of an abundant harvest. Carved and painted by hand, this handsome mask comes from Abdul Aziz Mohamadu. "It is used by the Goroshie tribe in Nigeria during...read more
By Abdul Aziz Mohamadu, this mask conveys a quiet joy. Its colorful contours are hand carved from seasoned African rubberwood and beautifully painted. Seed beads of recycled glass adorn the cheeks and...read more
Stern and beautiful, this elegant mask represents the great king who founded the Nigerian town of Ife. Kobina Asmah works in native sese wood to carve the face, adding rich applications of embossed...read more
Rita Addo Zakour celebrates Shango with the staff-like design of this admirable sculpture. As the Yoruba god of storm and drumming, Shango is a benevolent deity who bangs on drums as well as play...read more
Salihu Ibrahim crafts an impressive mask in the tradition of Nigeria’s Hausa people. Known as Zuchiya ("Heart"), the mask is believed to bring good fortune to those who live in the household...read more
The Gabogi people of Nigeria celebrate a good harvest during the Mashgu Festival, when the chief wears the Bariwa or Authority mask. Impressed by its beauty, Abdul Aziz Mohamadu creates a faithful...read more
Carved by hand from African rubberwood, this Sangaya mask is used by the Mgbakpa people of Nigeria during their millet festival. Its name means "promise of love" and shows appreciation of...read more
Boasting a tall topknot, this African mask is long and narrow. The stern visage reveals elegant symmetry in its form and patterns. Demonstrating his imagination and expertise, Ali Ibrahim adds richly...read more
Carved by hand from native sese wood, this handsome mask is an original design by Awudu Saaed. The young woman wears a tall headdress and braids her long hair. Enhanced with aluminum and copper wire...read more