Ghanaian artisan Christopher Nyasafo hand-carves this African mask from sese wood to depict a face painted brown. He works in the style of traditional Baule masks, representing a subgroup of the Akan people in the Ivory Coast. Depicting a man and a woman, this mask features patterns around the mouth that reflect traditional scarification practices.

Product Features: 

• Dimension: 19" H x 8.75" W x 3.9" D
• Weight:  2.83
• Color: Brown
• Material: Sese wood
• Intended as wall decor
• Hand-crafted item -- color, size and/or motif may vary slightly
• Made In Ghana

Story Behind the art:  

My name is Christopher Nyasafo and I was born in Accra. I like to carve wood. Growing up in Accra, I developed a passion for carving. I learned from many teachers like Louis Botchway. I started by helping out with errands outside of the workshop. Gradually, I started to cut logs, then sanding and finishing pieces. Over time, I learned to love this craft. I create sculptures, masks and musical instruments. I use osese wood, soot, cola nuts and acrylic paints. I am inspired by colors, the environment and other artists. My favorite thing about this craft is making people happy with my creations. I earned a business degree because I knew that I could get further with an education the more I pursued this art. It was very difficult and time-consuming starting out on my own. Getting information about where to get funds to start and sell my creations hasn't been easy. I now teach six assistants in my workshop, and I hope to have more beginners who are willing to learn. I mastered this craft by being willing to learn from my instructors, working hard and being trustworthy. My craft has been a source of income to my assistants who are now taking care of their homes and children. Even the food vendors who come to sell to my workers take the remaining scraps of wood to use as firewood for those who can't afford to buy charcoal or gas. My hope is to establish a modern workshop outside of Accra to accommodate and train young people interested in woodcarving. My dream is to establish a farm which will be the main source of my raw materials.

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