Trending Searches

Victor Yao Delanyo

hand-carved wood masks

"I was born in 1966 in the Volta Region of Ghana. I completed my elementary school education in 1982... read more
12 reviews
5
Caring for Children This artist supports children under the age of 18. Job Creator This artist positively impacts their community through job creation and provides jobs for 2 or more people. Moving On Up This artist has dramatically improved their livelihood by working with NOVICA. Preserving Traditions This artist uses traditional techniques handed down through the generations and/or creates culturally significant items, helping keep these traditions alive. Profound Impact Every purchase from this artist has a profound impact on their livelihood and income. Microcredit Financing Victor Yao Delanyo has received 8 microcredit loans with 0% interest from Kiva and Novica, the first for $1100 and the most recent for $500. Proceeds were used to invest in the purchase of wood, metal plates, paints and polish for production.

Facilitated by

West Africa Fulfillment Hub

Victor Yao Delanyo

Victor Yao Delanyo hand-carved wood masks

"I was born in 1966 in the Volta Region of Ghana. I completed my elementary school education in 1982.

"Due to financial difficulties I could not further my education, so I joined my brother-in-law who was a master carver, specializing in traditional African objects. I have been working independently for the past ten years and I am proud to mention that my works have been exhibited in the United States, as well as in Germany, Belgium, France and Australia.

"I work with ten experienced carvers. We acquire a type of hardwood known as sese for carving masks. The image is first sketched on paper, and then given to the apprentices to carve. We chip at the wood to get the desired figure or shape, then use sandpaper and polish to achieve a smooth object of good quality. I use red and black emulsion paint for the finishing. Other materials used to decorate and preserve our works are metal plates and sometimes clay."
Victor Yao Delanyo

Victor Yao Delanyo

"I was born in 1966 in the Volta Region of Ghana. I completed my elementary school education in 1982.

"Due to financial difficulties I could not further my education, so I joined my brother-in-law who was a master carver, specializing in traditional African objects. I have been working independently for the past ten years and I am proud to mention that my works have been exhibited in the United States, as well as in Germany, Belgium, France and Australia.

"I work with ten experienced carvers. We acquire a type of hardwood known as sese for carving masks. The image is first sketched on paper, and then given to the apprentices to carve. We chip at the wood to get the desired figure or shape, then use sandpaper and polish to achieve a smooth object of good quality. I use red and black emulsion paint for the finishing. Other materials used to decorate and preserve our works are metal plates and sometimes clay."

West Africa Fulfillment Hub

Maker BadgeCaring for Children
This artist supports children under the age of 18.
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.
Maker BadgeProfound Impact
Every purchase from this artist has a profound impact on their livelihood and income.
Maker BadgeMicrocredit Financing
Victor Yao Delanyo has received 8 microcredit loans with 0% interest from Kiva and Novica, the first for $1100 and the most recent for $500. Proceeds were used to invest in the purchase of wood, metal plates, paints and polish for production.

3 items

Filters
    Main image for African Mask Christmas Ornaments Set of 3 Be Happy
    Alternate image for African Mask Christmas Ornaments Set of 3 Be Happy

    $39.99

    $39.99
    African Mask Christmas Ornaments Set of 3 'Be Happy'
    Main image for Hand Made Congolese Wood Mask Congo Tribal Chief
    Alternate image for Hand Made Congolese Wood Mask Congo Tribal Chief
    Alternate image for Hand Made Congolese Wood Mask Congo Tribal Chief

    $69

    $69
    Hand Made Congolese Wood Mask 'Congo Tribal Chief'
    Main image for Unique Congo Zaire Wood Mask Congo Medicine Man
    Alternate image for Unique Congo Zaire Wood Mask Congo Medicine Man

    $69

    $69
    Unique Congo Zaire Wood Mask 'Congo Medicine Man'

    12 Reviews for

    Victor Yao Delanyo

    July 22, 2020
    C Cachet
    So much detail on each ornament. Truly a unique ornament to be treasured forever.
    Reviewed item
    January 17, 2020
    B Barbara
    Great Christmas present. They are bigger tan I thought. Worth it!
    Reviewed item
    January 9, 2020
    S Stephanie
    Beautiful masks, great quality and a nice solid weight. Definitely worth the price!
    Reviewed item
    January 9, 2020
    D Devora
    Wow! Just what I was looking for, perfect addition to my collection
    Reviewed item
    January 3, 2020
    J Judith
    These masks are exquisite ! We purchased them for ourselves and our favorite young couple as special Christmas tree ornaments. They are a bit heavy for a tree but being hung has beautiful Art as a remembrance from our time in Africa.
    Reviewed item
    December 11, 2019
    J Jeanne
    These ornaments are beautifully made: heavier and more richly colored that the photo can show. They are unique and stunning.
    Reviewed item
    November 8, 2019
    P Phoebe
    I am very impressed and glad I ordered 2 sets! For me and as a gift.
    Reviewed item
    July 21, 2019
    T Toni
    This review is long overdue. We use these mask ornaments on our Christmas tree every year. Beautiful and well-made!
    Reviewed item
    December 28, 2017
    H Heather
    I was given this set of mask for a Christmas gift from my sister Heather. I screamed with so much excitement. Although they arrived after Christmas, I look forward to decorating my tree next year with them. The unique craftsmanship is mind boggling. Impressively beautiful and colorful. The sizing of each mask is the perfect size, being about the size of a large Christmas ball. I have placed for mo... read more
    Reviewed item
    July 16, 2021
    D Dona
    We have numerous home decorations we bought in several African countries while visiting them. The masks are just as authentic and go well beside other African objects. Terrific.
    Reviewed item
    July 3, 2021
    M Merle
    These will be my families heirloom to be admired though out future generations. You have shown your God giving gift from your skills, creativity, character, and integrity. Perfect without any flaws! Thank you for sharing your craftsmanship to me and the World. These are impressive, most impressive.
    Reviewed item
    April 12, 2021
    N Norman
    Very artistic designs and quality workmanship.Culturally significant for myself and my family.
    Reviewed item
    December 28, 2017
    H Heather
    I was given this set of mask for a Christmas gift from my sister Heather. I screamed with so much excitement. Although they arrived after Christmas, I look forward to decorating my tree next year with them. The unique craftsmanship is mind boggling. Impressively beautiful and colorful. The sizing of each mask is the perfect size, being about the size of a large Christmas ball. I have placed for more to be added to the wishlist, wanting to have last 5 more sets. When I informed my dear friend about the gift, Kathy immediately was also interested in wanting a set or two. I'm looking forward to seeing what's next from this magnificent craftsman.

    Blog Posts