Description

Introduce an absolute monument of West African graphic art to your gallery with this large 55-inch (139.7 cm) vintage hand-carved wood Nwantantay vertical plank mask, masterfully crafted by the Bwa people of Burkina Faso.

Historically danced during annual agricultural renewal rites and village initiations to invoke the protection of forest spirits, these immense vertical masks throw traditional realistic anatomy aside in favor of pure geometric genius. This exceptional example features a lower circular face shield anchored by bold, forward-jutting concentric target eyes and a sharp geometric beak, crowned by a towering vertical plank superstructure detailed with stacked panels of traditional geometric “X” and chevron matrices, terminating in a sweeping crescent moon finial.

The entire hardwood wingspan is meticulously hand-detailed with a high-contrast layout of natural black charcoal, red ochre, and a heavily weathered white kaolin clay wash. Boasting an authentic vintage patina with excellent surface aging and soft handling wear, this 4.5-foot sculpture stands as a true museum-quality centerpiece for advanced collections.

Product Specifications:

Culture: Bwa Peoples
Country of Origin: Burkina Faso, West Africa
Estimated Age: Mid-20th Century (Circa 1950s–1970s)
Material: Heavy Indigenous Hardwood, White Kaolin, Natural Earth Pigments
Dimensions: 55 inches High x 11.5 inches Wide x 6.5 inches Deep
Condition: Excellent vintage condition. Pigments display authentic micro-wear, natural fading, and light flaking inside the hand-cut valleys consistent with genuine history. The wood carving is structurally flawless and solid.

Shipping & Care Instructions

Due to the age, size, and delicate nature of this 55-inch artifact’s mixed-media elements (including fragile organic fibers, leather, and horn attachments), this piece will be professionally packed. It is double-boxed and surrounded by custom cushioning to ensure absolute safety during transit. Full insurance and tracking are included with shipment.

Care & Preservation Guidelines

To preserve the beautiful, authentic vintage patina and structural integrity of this mid-century bobo piece, please observe the following care instructions:

Display Location: Keep the sculpture out of direct, intense sunlight to prevent the aged hardwood from fading or developing deeper stress fractures.
Climate Control: Place the statue away from direct paths of heating vents, air conditioners, or humidifiers. Drastic shifts in humidity can dry out or distort vintage organic cords and leather attachments.
Cleaning: Do not apply any chemical cleaners, liquid polishes, or water to the surface. To clean, simply use a soft, entirely dry microfiber cloth or a delicate brush to gently clear away dust from the wood crevices and mixed-media ornaments.

Additional information

Weight	15 lbs
Dimensions	60 × 15 × 10 in
Region	West Africa
Culture	Lobi People
Origin	Burkina Faso, West Africa
Estimated Period	Mid-20th Century (Circa 1950s–1970s)
Material	Carved Hardwood, Animal Horn, Glass Trade Beads, Leather, Fiber Cord
Height	24 inches (61 cm)
Condition	Excellent vintage condition. Wood shows beautiful natural aging and minor stable cracks consistent with genuine ritual use. All mixed-media attachments are structurally intact.