NOVICA Artisan Handcarved African Wood Mask Wooden Igbo Brown Black Yellow Blue Ghana Masks [9.75in H x 5.25in W x 2.4in D] ' Uzoma';

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: Representing Uzoma, meaning "the good way" in the Igbo language, this mask is crafted by artisan Abdul Aziz Mohamadu through an intensive process requiring both patience and skill. The artisan hand carves the mask from local sese wood, then allows it to dry for two weeks before sanding and hand painting the elongated nose, closed eyes, mouth and dotted incision details. The Nigerian-style mask, intended for wall use, is then painted with striking yellow and blue highlights, and finished with clay for an aged, vintage look.

• Hand-crafted item -- color, size and/or motif may vary slightly
• Intended as wall decor

About our Artist: 'I always knew I wanted to paint, but wasn't sure I could make a living out of it, so I looked into other fields too,' recalls Abdul Aziz Mohamadu of Ghana. 'I observed master carver Musa at his workshop for a period of time, then I picked up a log of wood and started carving out a mask as I had observed him doing. This surprised Musa and he was willing to help me perfect the skill. I developed a love for this new art, and that's how I eventually became a master carver too!'...