Description

Introduce an absolute monument of West African graphic art to your gallery with this large vintage hand-carved wood Nwantantay horizontal 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 (nanse), these immense wingspan masks throw traditional realistic anatomy aside in favor of pure geometric genius. This exceptional example features a sweeping horizontal plank canvas mimicking an outstretched hawk in flight, anchored by a centralized animal head with bold, forward-jutting concentric target eyes and a sharp geometric beak.

The entire hardwood wingspan is meticulously hand-detailed with a high-contrast layout of traditional checkerboard grids, zig-zag lines, and “X” cross panels using natural black charcoal, red ochre, and white kaolin clay washes. Boasting a beautifully weathered vintage patina with authentic surface aging, this large-scale carving stands as a premier acquisition for any serious collector of tribal arts.

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
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 24-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 Bwa 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

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.