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: “Those who give will receive blessings and good fortunes,” believes Juliana Akandas, one of a few women carvers in Ghana. Her design masterfully replicates the Saleka mask of the Hausa people in northern Ghana. Carved from African sese wood, it is decorated with embossed aluminum plates and painted details. According to Hausa customs, it is traditional to give alms to the needy during festivals, therefore people hang the Saleka (“giving”) mask outside their homes to communicate they will be giving to the poor.

About our Artist: Juliana Akandas became interested in Ghanaian carvings while working as a secretary, so she learned woodcarving. ‘My favorite is the Akuaba doll. When given this doll, any woman who cannot have babies is believed likely to get pregnant. I was so fascinated with all this that I decided to learn the trade, and did so through a carver in Aburi. My products are unique; they have a meaning and they are backed by history. Almost all my masks have a meaning and a history behind them.’