 These fine and superb plank mask named Nwantantay, is handcrafted and used by the southern Bwa ethnic group, south of Dedougou in Burkina Faso. It is presumed to represent nature spirits that the family elders encountered in the wilderness, and which watch over their families. The zig-zag lines on the mask represent the path of the ancestors that all Bwa must follow if they are to overcome adversity. The concentric circles are the sacred wells in one town that are said to be the “water spiritâ€. The masks are used for entertainment during market days, for initiation of young adults, and at annual yam festivals. The dancers appear wearing thick costumes of brightly dyed hemp fibre.
Size: 200cm H x 25cm W
Botanical Boys
About us
Our green adventures started back in 2009 when we moved into a garden flat in East London. We renovated a Japanese and Italian water garden from it's overgrown past but with no prior garden experience we got stuck into the books and learned everything there was to know about pruning shrubs and planting. After the first year tidying the space up we were asked by a friend to join The National Garden Scheme. The scheme recognises gardens of quality and raises money for charity. It was a scary prospect of opening the garden to the scrutiny of the public. So we opened up for the first time and it was so exciting, we received some great positive feedback and some helpful tips from the seasoned gardeners! Subsequently, we opened our garden every year.