protective facemasks

Christopher Nyasafo replicates the legendary Kwele mask with a feast of colors. This style of mask is from the Kwele people in Gabon, Cameroon and the Republic of Congo and features two long horns that encircle the face with a heart-shaped aura. The masks are regarded as highly protective and are controlled by the Bwete Association, who maintains social order. They are used in ceremonies which promote well-being and community. Nyasafo carves the sese wood wall mask by hand and paints it brown, yellow, green, red and grey.

Master carver Christopher Nyasafo faithfully replicates the legendary mask of the Kwele people in Gabon, Cameroon and the Republic of Congo. It features two long horns that encircle the face with a heart-shaped aura. The masks are regarded as highly protective and are controlled by the Bwete Association, who maintains social order. They are used in ceremonies which promote well-being and community. Nyasafo carves the sese wood wall mask by hand and paints it blue, white, brown, and light orange.

A graceful bird alights atop a bearded face with animal ears. Melding human and zoomorphic features, Salihu Ibrahim sculpts a mesmerizing image. The graceful sese wood mask comes from the Guro people of Cote d'Ivoire, where they represent the spirits of the underworld. This design symbolizes protection.

A rooster stands proudly atop a bearded blue face in this graceful mask. Fluid in its beauty, the sese wood carving comes from the Guro people of Côte d'Ivoire, where such masks represent the spirits of the underworld. This elegant piece by Salihu Ibrahim symbolizes protection.

According to Indonesian mythology, Barong is a lion-like creature that is believed to bring protection from evil. He is depicted here in this wood mask by Made Mulyani, hand-carved from acacia wood with a fierce, fanged face and intricate decorations painted gold.

This wondrous, mystical hand-carved sese wood mask comes from the Nyadedzor workshop. With a round face, half-closed eyes, and an open mouth, the mask bears the name Nkunim, meaning "to succeed". The piece is adorned with beautiful designs as well as aluminum plates, and it is provided with a coat of potassium for protection and finished for an antique appearance. The mask is a magnificent symbol of success in any home.