
Handcrafted Congo Zaire Wood Mask 'Pride of Womanhood' Item ID: 2671806953
$99This is your own listing item.
100% Happiness Guaranteed!
Shop with Confidence
Easy 30 day returns!
Other favorites
View moreMeet the maker

Juliana Akandas wood masks and carvings
I was born April 13, 1969; I am happily married, with three children. After secondary school, I became interested in Ghanaian carvings when I worked as a secretary. I got to know almost every carver in the country. Due to the nature of my job, I visited their various workshops and showrooms and had the opportunity to observe and study various pieces, the methods and finish, as well as their meanings.
For example, my favorite piece is the Akuabaa doll because of its meaning and power. In the Akan tribe of Ghana, the doll represents fertility. It is believed that, when given this doll, any woman who cannot have babies is likely to get pregnant. You can imagine the joy a child brings to such a woman. The Akuabaa doll is also a symbol of twins in Ghana, and they each receive an Akuabaa doll so that in case one should die, during the twin festival the doll is brought out in remembrance of the dead twin.
I was so fascinated with all this that I decided to learn the trade, and did so through a carver in Aburi. My products are unique; they have a meaning and they are backed by history. Almost all my masks have a meaning and a history behind them.
I have attended several exhibitions in Ghana since 2001.
For example, my favorite piece is the Akuabaa doll because of its meaning and power. In the Akan tribe of Ghana, the doll represents fertility. It is believed that, when given this doll, any woman who cannot have babies is likely to get pregnant. You can imagine the joy a child brings to such a woman. The Akuabaa doll is also a symbol of twins in Ghana, and they each receive an Akuabaa doll so that in case one should die, during the twin festival the doll is brought out in remembrance of the dead twin.
I was so fascinated with all this that I decided to learn the trade, and did so through a carver in Aburi. My products are unique; they have a meaning and they are backed by history. Almost all my masks have a meaning and a history behind them.
I have attended several exhibitions in Ghana since 2001.

West Africa Fulfillment 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.
Maker BadgeEmpowering Women
The Women's Empowerment badge is awarded to female artisans or artisan groups that are led by women.
Maker BadgeJob Creator
This artist positively impacts their community through job creation and provides jobs for 2 or more people.
Maker BadgeMoving On Up
This artist has dramatically improved their livelihood by working with NOVICA.
Maker BadgePreserving Traditions
This artist uses traditional techniques handed down through the generations and/or creates culturally significant items, helping keep these traditions alive.

















































