Hand Carved African Masks with Akan Symbols Pair 'Hope and Interdependence' Item ID: 2677064787

Name: Hand Carved African Masks with Akan Symbols Pair 'Hope and Interdependence'
Brand: Theophilus Anum
SKU: 2677064787
Price: 149.99 USD
Availability: InStock

$149.99

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About this item

"This fascinating pair of masks is the original design of Ghana's Theophilus Anum, who carves them by hand from sese wood. The forehead and chest of the male mask bears the Adinkra symbol Biribi Wo Soro, which represents hope. On the female mask, the forehead is adorned with the symbol Ese Ne Tekrema, which represents friendship and interdependence. Adrinkra symbols are motifs used by the Akan peoples that represent common proverbs or beliefs."

Item detail

2.82 lbs
Each: 18.5 inches H x 4.7 inches W x 3.1 inches D
Sese wood
Features a rustic
rugged finish
For use on a wall or a table
Hand-crafted item -- color
size and/or motif may vary slightly

Made in Ghana

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Theophilus Anum

"I developed an interest in carving right from a tender age. Carving and designing was a business in the house where I grew up. I would sit and observe the way beautiful designs were carved out of wood. Sometimes I would pick up used sandpaper and try sandpapering left over pieces of wood as I had seen others do.

"I did not take carving as seriously as I did soccer. When I'd return from school I would rather go play soccer, but once in a while my attention would be drawn to a new piece of artwork and I would pause to watch closely the item and wonder how it had been crafted.

"Due to financial constraints I could not complete my senior high school education. I could not just sit at home, so I went to Master Musah to learn how to carve. He was willing to help me, realizing I was serious. He took me through the basics and also taught me how to design wood.

"I was more interested in designing than in carving. I think it had to do with my innate abilities. I would come out with beautiful designs, and now when I carve, the design just comes to mind and I translate it on the item.

"I worked with Master Musah for about five years. He considers me as a son and likewise I took him as a father. At a point in time I had to go and work on my own, and he freely gave his blessing. I am still in touch with him due to the relationship built during the time of training.

"I moved to start on my own at the Art Center in Accra. I also joined an NGO aimed at helping street children by learning a trade. I have taught several of these children how to carve. I was promoted to leader and to date we continue assisting children living on the streets. These children make a living out of the skills they learn, rather than walking the streets. It gives me joy to share my knowledge with other people.

"It is my dream to open a big workshop where I could train several people and also be able to craft larger quantities. I work with sese wood for my carved items."

Ghanaian Masks Cultural Masks Brown Masks Wood Masks

Theophilus Anum

Theophilus Anum hand-carved wood art

"I am a humble, respectful and a sociable person. I am also a designer. I've loved drawing since I was a child. I also love playing soccer and I joined a local team in my neighborhood. I get my inspiration from God.

"I developed an interest in carving right from a tender age. Carving and designing was a business in the house where I grew up. I would sit and observe the way beautiful designs were carved out of wood. Sometimes I would pick up used sandpaper and try sandpapering left over pieces of wood as I had seen others do.

"I did not take carving as seriously as I did soccer. When I'd return from school I would rather go play soccer, but once in a while my attention would be drawn to a new piece of artwork and I would pause to watch closely the item and wonder how it had been crafted.

"Due to financial constraints I could not complete my senior high school education. I could not just sit at home, so I went to Master Musah to learn how to carve. He was willing to help me, realizing I was serious. He took me through the basics and also taught me how to design wood.

"I was more interested in designing than in carving. I think it had to do with my innate abilities. I would come out with beautiful designs, and now when I carve, the design just comes to mind and I translate it on the item.

"I worked with Master Musah for about five years. He considers me as a son and likewise I took him as a father. At a point in time I had to go and work on my own, and he freely gave his blessing. I am still in touch with him due to the relationship built during the time of training.

"I moved to start on my own at the Art Center in Accra. I also joined an NGO aimed at helping street children by learning a trade. I have taught several of these children how to carve. I was promoted to leader and to date we continue assisting children living on the streets. These children make a living out of the skills they learn, rather than walking the streets. It gives me joy to share my knowledge with other people.

"It is my dream to open a big workshop where I could train several people and also be able to craft larger quantities. I work with sese wood for my carved items."

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Handmade: A Global Artisan Marketplace Accra, Ghana

Africa Artisan Empowerment Hub

The traditional arts are a vibrant aspect of everyday life in West Africa. From richly intricate handwoven kente cloth fabrics, to intricately colorful beaded arts, ceremonial masks, and exquisite jewelry, to traditional throne-stools hand-carved for customers by the Ashanti king's actual chief carver, artisans proudly offer their region's finest handmade works of art.

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Maker Badge Job Creator

This artist positively impacts their community through job creation and provides jobs for 2 or more people.

Maker Badge Moving On Up

This artist has dramatically improved their livelihood by working with NOVICA.

Maker Badge Preserving Traditions

This artist uses traditional techniques handed down through the generations and/or creates culturally significant items, helping keep these traditions alive.

Maker Badge Profound Impact

Every purchase from this artist has a profound impact on their livelihood and income.

Maker Badge Microcredit Financing

Theophilus Anum has received a $100 microcredit loan with 0% interest.