Hand-Carved Ashanti Mask - Creativity & Protection

Description

This is a hand-carved Ashanti mask, made in Ghana. Sese wood, 12" high by 7" wide, and embellished with hammered/incised brass overlays, and colorful beads and shells. Used by the Akan people in spiritual and social ceremonies to connect the physical and spiritual realms, embodying ancestors or spiritual entities, brought to life through dance in masquerades and rituals. The snake motif on the forehead symbolizes powerful creative/protective forces. The mask features characteristic elements such as the triangular nose, gaping mouth, and widened eyes. We have received several different masks! Keep checking back to bid on others in the collection! (Click on each photo to expand.)