For the Ashanti people of Ghana, actions do in fact speak louder than words. They suggest presenting this bright mask to the person one is interested in, as a first and loving gesture. The mask is known as Odobra, which means "loved one" or "come love." Robert Nortey carves the admirable mask by hand from sese wood and decorates it with embossed brass plates.
About the Artist: Initially, Robert worked with a large aluminum company. However, over the course of time, he joined his brother, Nii Noi Nortey, as a collector of antiques, as well as an imaginative creator of new carvings.
After four years of working together, Nortey left to start a workshop of his own. Presently, he works along with expert artists, all designers and carvers. Nortey currently focuses on the design aspect of the process. The carvings are principally created in sese, nyame dua, tweneboah, and other quality woods. These are obtained from the eastern and central regions of Ghana. Says Nortey, who has been involved in this trade for the past twenty years, "I love my art and I hope to produce more interesting designs for my customers." He has participated in countless exhibitions, always achieving positive results.
The Robert Nortey Artisan Collection is brought to you by Novica in Association with National Geographic. This beautiful piece was handcrafted by Robert Nortey in Ghana. An artisan story card will be included with your purchase.
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