Elongated headdresses implying extraordinary power, these exquisite masks by George Asante represent asafo, or warriors. Hand-carved of sese wood, they emulate traditional masks by the Ivorienne Baoule culture, worn to protect communities from evil, to celebrate festivals and harvests; to honor and entertain important personalities, as well as to commemorate the dead. Baoule masks are also worn by a judge who intends to inspire terror into the hearts of criminals. The same cultural setting is known to allow the use of smaller face masks with female features to entertain and honor community members.
Asante stains the wood with black, dark tan, and red polish, and he embellishes each mask with applications of aluminum and brass embossed with mythical creatures. These splendid masks are an authentic expression of West African culture, an elegant addition to any décor.
- Sese wood with brass and aluminum detailing
- 9.70 lbs
- Each: 23 inches H x 7.5 inches W x 3.2 inches D