Product Review

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: With eyes closed, this beautiful visage is covered with ornate aluminum repoussé. It is a traditional mask used in funeral rites by the chief priest of the Yiku clan of Ghana's Volta Region. The ceremony expels the souls of the recently dead. "The almost invisible mouth makes it sacred because of the silence during funerals," designer Evelyn Kafui Ahianyo explains. "Its possession assures protection while averting misfortune."



About our Artist: 'My greatest inspiration is to preserve our rich cultural heritage,' confides Ghana's Evelyn Kafui Ahianyo. 'Initially, I wasn't using lots of different materials, but now I use recycled glass and glass beads, aluminum, brass and more. I sit and draw the mask creatively, and come up with the colors that will make it stand out.'