Bwa Ba Tribe in Burkina Faso HUGE Antique Hand Carved Wooden "Plant Mask" For Sale

Discover the mesmerizing world of the Bwa Ba Tribe in Burkina Faso with this extraordinary Plant Mask. The Bwa community is deeply rooted in farming traditions, spanning across sections of Mali and Burkina Faso. Their artistic heritage shines through in the Nwantantay plank-shaped masks, which boast a distinctive design. These masks feature a circular face at the bottom and a crescent moon at the top, creating a captivating and harmonious visual balance. The eyes draw inspiration from the wise owl, while the imposing hooked "nose" is reminiscent of the hornbill bird.
What truly sets the Nwantantay masks apart are their intricate geometric patterns. Zigzag lines, concentric circles, checkerboards, and more adorn these masks, infusing them with both aesthetic beauty and hidden meaning. In fact, the designs can even serve as a coded language, communicating secret society knowledge to those initiated into its mysteries.
This particular Nwantantay mask is nothing short of monumental in size, commanding attention and respect. It stands tall and proud as a testament to the Bwa's rich cultural heritage and artistic expression.
Much like the remarkable Senufo mask I previously shared, this Bwa mask carries an intriguing history. It was a cherished possession of my father, and its origin story adds to its allure. In the 1990s, my parents had the privilege of staying in the home of a notable Hollywood figure, a residence adorned with an impressive collection of African masks. Upon expressing admiration for these masks, my father received encouragement to begin his own collection. He was graciously provided with the contact information of a South African dealer specializing in masks from various tribes across the Ivory Coast.It was through this dealer, who spent half the year in the US and half on the continent of Africa, that my father sourced all of his tribal masks that are now on my account.
This mask is designed for wall mounting, but please take note of its weight—it's substantial, and a solid mounting system is necessary to display it safely and securely. While the paint may have faded over the years, adding to its character, it should be mentioned that the art dealer often procured pieces that had been crafted many years before their discovery. These acquisitions typically involved direct transactions with the tribes he visited, sometimes involving barter with items like cash or bags of rice.
**Dimensions:**- Length: Approximately 40 inches- Width: Approximately 8.5 inches
Own a piece of the Bwa Ba Tribe's cultural legacy and history with this remarkable Plant Mask. Its imposing size, intricate detailing, and fascinating backstory make it a captivating addition to any collection or living space. Don't miss this opportunity to acquire a unique work of art that embodies the essence of Bwa Ba artistry and culture. Order now to make it a cherished part of your collection today!