Handmade Sese Wood 'Ladder of Death' Mask (Ghana)

This handmade creation is offered in partnership with NOVICA, in association with National Geographic. This imposing mask depicts a personage that is somber in the face of death. Oblique eyes, a slender nose and full lips emerge from textured sheets of aluminum repousse. Carved and painted by hand, the mask is the work of Theophilus Sackey. An adinkra symbol on the forehead depicts a ladder. "Owuo atwedee is an Akan symbol of mortality," the artisan explains. "It is a reminder of the transitory nature of existence in this world, and of the imperative to live a good life to be a worthy soul in the afterlife." 

Product Features:
Story Behind the Art:
'I am a calm, humble and quiet person who also loves arts and crafts. After school, I'd stop by the workshop of a local wood carver, Salihu, to observe him and his workers as they carved different objects out of raw wood. Realizing my interest, Salihu offered to train me. Within a short time, I could finish the carved items. At a certain point in time, my parents could not afford to further my education so I decided to continue learning under Salihu and pursue a career in this field. It is my dream to one day become the owner of a well-established art workshop and be able to employ many workers to reduce the alarming rate of unemployment in my country.'

Please allow 10 business days for the product to leave our warehouse and to receive tracking information. You should expect to receive this item within 15 business days.

• Weight:1.8 lbs
• Dimension:19.75" H x 5" W x 2.4" D
• Colors: Black, brown, red
• Materials: Sese wood, aluminum
• Intended as wall decor 
• Made in Ghana.