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Titled Mukoso, which means “it pleases me” in the Igbo language, this African mask hides profound symbolism in each hand-carved detail. Presented by Akoma of West Africa, the item has a serene face centered on a crocodile carving, symbolizing power and efficiency. The final touch is in the bird that crowns the design, often related to wisdom and freedom.

Ghanaian artisan Theophilus Anum designs this intricate, decorative wall mask. Carved from wood and accentuated with brass plates, colorful glass beads and bright colors in abstract patterns, the mask features unique renderings of elegant birds. Named dawa after the Nigerian word meaning money, this mask is sure to bring good fortune.

Robert Nortey carves a beautiful sese wood replica of the Suaga mask of the Mambila people. They live south of the Adamana Mountains on the border between Cameroon and Nigeria -- either can be considered as their country of origin. The Suaga mask is used during the festival of the same name, which marks the beginning and the end of the agricultural cycle. Nortey adorns the mask with embossed aluminum plates to resemble tribal scarifications.

Peeking down over the forehead and nose, a bird confers mystical powers to this ornate mask. Sefah Mohammed carves it from sese wood, masterfully replicating the artistic stylizations of the Maradi people of northern Nigeria. This Kiyaahe ("protection") mask is believed to guard the crops from those who would steal them, especially when they are due for harvesting.

Brilliant colors distinguish this beautiful mask, and a bird appears on the forehead. By Sefah Mohammed, it is adorned with African beads and ornate aluminum repoussé. "In Southern Nigeria, this mask is displayed during periods of drought," he explains. "It is believed that the mask's appearance causes the spirits to open the way for rainfall." Mohammed names this piece Tangarda, a Hausa word meaning "Unfortunate."