



Fair Trade Burkina Faso Wood Mask, "Bwa Butterfly Bird"
Representing a nature spirit among the Bwa tribe of Burkina Faso, this elegant mask takes the shape of a butterfly. However, art historian Christopher D. Roy reports that elders of the Kambi clan in Dossi refer to these long-nosed butterfly masks as hawks or vultures. "This mask is used by males of the Bwa tribe during the harvesting of grains," says master wood carver Salihu Ibrahim. The red color comes from stones, ground and mixed with glue. Clay gives it yellow shading, and the black accents are created with charcoal. A loop on the back of the mask allows it to be easily displayed on a wall.
- 0.41 kgs
- 0.9 lbs
- 14 cm H x 51 cm W x 8 cm D
- 5.5" H x 20" W x 3.2" D
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Reviews by Customers

Verified Reviewer
01/01/2017
"Elegant and Majestic Mask"





I am a collector of African Masks and this one is incredible! It is a sensitive and powerful portrayal of a winged bird and beautifully elegant. It is made by artist/artisan with a deft, experienced hand. I will cherish it. Sincerely, ArtProf
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Bwa Butterfly Bird, Fair Trade Burkina Faso Wood Mask
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Verified Reviewer
06/17/2016
"Love this piece"





Appreciate all the work of this artis
Purchased Item:
Bwa Butterfly Bird, Fair Trade Burkina Faso Wood Mask
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Verified Reviewer
03/19/2018
"Beautiful mask"





Very pleased with my purchase. Beautiful craftsmanship, rich colors, great addition to my collection.
Purchased Item:
Bwa Butterfly Bird, Fair Trade Burkina Faso Wood Mask
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Verified Reviewer
10/05/2017
"Beautiful Handcrafted"





We have been buying masks from Novice for our mother for years. Every year for Christmas she receives an animal-themed mask. The artistry and detail on this mask is superb.
Purchased Item:
Bwa Butterfly Bird, Fair Trade Burkina Faso Wood Mask
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Gift Occasion:
- This was a gift for: Mother-in-law
- Occasion: Christmas

Verified Reviewer
01/22/2021
"A new favorite"





My husband really likes this new acquisition to his collection. We think it would be better to call the piece the Owl mask because it looks more like an owl than a butterfly but it is a good representation of a womens mask.
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Verified Reviewer
01/06/2021
"Very satisfied"





A heavy, well built and detailed mask. Glad that I purchased it.
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Your Purchase Makes a Difference!
Salihu Ibrahim has received 9 microcredit loans with 0% interest from Kiva and Novica, the first for $1250 and the most recent for $5000. Proceeds were used to expand his workshop by hiring additional carvers.
This artist uses traditional techniques handed down through the generations and/or creates culturally significant items, helping keep these traditions alive.
This artist positively impacts their community through job creation and provides jobs for 2 or more people.
Every purchase from this artist has a profound impact on their livelihood and income.
This artist has dramatically improved their livelihood by working with NOVICA.
This artist supports children under the age of 18.
Cause Badges
Salihu Ibrahim Hand-carved wood masks and sculptures
"I worked with the chief's head carver for about 15 years, during which time I learned the various styles and techniques of Ashanti and Akwamu traditional methods of wood carving."