NOVICA, in association with National Geographic, works together with talented artisan designers around the world to produce stunning, keepsake treasures. Our mantra is to spread global happiness, so rest assured – we’ll do everything we possibly can to ensure you’re a happy customer.

About this item: Carved by hand, this exquisite mask by Abdul Aziz Mohamadu features gleaming brass and colorful beads. “Such masks are used by men of the Igbo tribe in Nigeria to express how they feel about a woman,” he explains. “A husband may also give such a mask to his wife to affirm how beautiful she is to him.” Mohamadu names the mask Inido, “Beautiful” in the Igbo language.

About our Artist: ‘I always knew I wanted to paint, but wasn’t sure I could make a living out of it, so I looked into other fields too,’ recalls Abdul Aziz Mohamadu. ‘I observed master carver Musa at his workshop for a period of time, then I picked up a log of wood and started carving out a mask as I had observed him doing. This surprised Musa and he was willing to help me perfect the skill. I developed a love for this new art, and that’s how I eventually became a master carver too!’