NOVICA Decorative Malian Large Sese Wood Mask, Red 'Senufo Monkey Mask'

NOVICA, in association with National Geographic, works together with talented artisan designers around the world to produce stunning, keepsake treasures. Our mantra is to spread global happiness, so rest assured - we’ll do everything we possibly can to ensure you’re a happy customer. About this item: A monkey centers the headdress of this beautiful African mask, and the personage wears large earrings. Hand carved and painted, the sese wood image is crafted by Ghana's Salihu Ibrahim. It represents the Fulani people who have settled in Mali. Although believed to have West African origins, the Fula are also present throughout Central Africa and Sudanese North Africa. "We Africans tend to adopt certain cultural practices that we believe are good ones, and customs are also shared through inter-cultural marriage," Ibrahim explains. "Among Mali-dwelling Fulani, comb masks are given to a woman as a marriage proposal. She responds by giving a Senufo monkey mask to her suitor as a sign of acceptance. Because the monkey is known to be a happy animal, this mask reflects her happiness in saying yes." About our Artist: 'Upon the death of my father, I was sent to live with one of my father's closest friends, a renowned traditional carver to the then Akwamu chief and the people of Akwamu,' Salihu Ibrahim says. 'I worked with him for about 15 years, during which time I learned the styles and techniques of the Ashanti and Akwamu people. My work began to flourish and achieve recognition, and today, I have apprentice carvers working with me to learn the art of carving.'

• Sese wood
• Size: 16.25" H x 7.5" W x 4.3" D
• Authentic: an original NOVICA fair trade product in association with National Geographic.
• Certified: comes with an official NOVICA Story Card certifying quality & authenticity.
• Exceptional Artisan Quality by Salihu Ibrahim - crafted with care to be treasured for years to come.
• Product Info: Sese wood