The best African art on Etsy
Been on a trip to Africa recently? Maybe you’re planning one? For travelers interested in African art and culture, I’ve compiled a list of some of the best African art on Etsy to inspire your travels or reflect on past trips. They make great souvenirs that can be shipped straight to your door rather than carried back in your suitcase. Here is the best African art on Etsy.
Bacongo Mask
This African mask comes from the Bakongo people, a matriarchal society that values independence, and is the largest tribe in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. This tribal mask was carved from wood with contrasting shades.
Songye Kifwebe Figure
From the Democratic Republic of the Congo, this figure represents the Songye people, particularly those who wore Kifwebe masks. The term was given to masks representing spirits and are characterized by carved striations. This figure is medium sized and carved from timber.
Bacango Mask
Another Bacango mask from DR Congo makes the list of best African art on Etsy for its unique style and rarity. Bacango masks are rare as they were typically only worn during initiation ceremonies and the funerals of important personalities
African Mudcloth
Mudcloth comes from the Western Sahara region of North Africa. The fabric was traditionally woven by men in squares and then stitched together. After dyeing, its laid in the sun where its colors begin to change from dark brown to black or gray. The dyeing process is then repeated, removing excess mud.
Igbo Mask
Another interesting art piece is this Igbo mask from Nigeria. The Igbo use thousands of masks, which incarnate spirits of the dead, thus forming a large community of souls. The best known are from the Northern Ibo mmo society, which represent the spirits of deceased maidens and their mothers, with masks that symbolize beauty.
