NOVICA Hand Carved Painted Wood Wall Mask for Protecting the Forest

NOVICA, in collaboration with National Geographic, partners with skilled artisan designers from around the globe to create breathtaking keepsake treasures. Our mission is to spread happiness worldwide, and we are fully committed to ensuring that you have a delightful shopping experience.

Product Overview

This striking mask features a long, narrow visage that could easily resemble the trunk of a tree, topped with elegant, slender branches. Handcrafted from durable African rubberwood, this piece showcases the remarkable craftsmanship of Abdul Aziz Mohamadu. "This mask is significant to the Gonja people of Northern Ghana," he shares. "Its purpose is to safeguard their forest, which they hold to be the resting place of their ancestors." The mask is known as Koholo, a Gonja term that translates to "protect the jungle," and its distinctive white hue comes from layers of clay applied during the crafting process.

Meet the Artist

Abdul Aziz Mohamadu has always felt a strong connection to the world of art. "From a young age, I knew I wanted to paint, but I wasn't certain it could be a sustainable career, so I explored various other professions," he reflects. His journey took a turn when he spent time observing master carver Musa in his workshop. Inspired, Abdul decided to pick up a piece of wood and attempted to carve a mask just as he had seen Musa do. The master carver was taken aback by Abdul's initiative and generously offered to guide him in honing his skills. This mentorship ignited Abdul’s passion for carving, leading him to develop into a master carver himself.

Product Specifications

• Dimensions: 17 inches in height, 5 inches in width, and 2.4 inches in depth
• Material: Authentic African rubberwood
• Certification: This item is an original NOVICA fair trade product in association with National Geographic, accompanied by a NOVICA Story Card guaranteeing both quality and authenticity.
• Artisan Quality: The incredible craftsmanship by Abdul Aziz Mohamadu ensures that each piece is exceptional.

Whether you are an avid collector or simply seeking a unique piece to elevate your home decor, this mask represents not only exquisite artistry but also a rich cultural heritage. It stands as a testament to the traditions of the Gonja people and the craftsmanship of dedicated artisans like Abdul Aziz.

By choosing this authentic creation, you are not only enhancing your space with a stunning work of art but also contributing to the livelihoods of talented artists around the world. Your support helps spread the joy of creativity and preserves cultural legacies for future generations. At NOVICA, we take pride in connecting you with exquisite artisan treasures that embody beauty, culture, and intelligence—each piece tells a story waiting to be shared.

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