{"product_id":"small-nafana-female-bedu-mask-ivory-coast","title":"Small Nafana Female Bedu Mask - Ivory Coast","description":"\u003cp data-start=\"0\" data-end=\"574\"\u003eThe \u003cstrong data-start=\"4\" data-end=\"18\"\u003eBedu masks\u003c\/strong\u003e of the \u003cstrong data-start=\"26\" data-end=\"43\"\u003eNafana people\u003c\/strong\u003e of northeastern Côte d’Ivoire are tall, wooden \u003cstrong data-start=\"91\" data-end=\"106\"\u003eplank masks\u003c\/strong\u003e used in ceremonial masquerades, especially during end-of-harvest and New Year festivals. They are painted with bold geometric designs using natural pigments and have an abstract face carved into the plank. There are \u003cstrong data-start=\"323\" data-end=\"351\"\u003emale and female versions\u003c\/strong\u003e: male Bedu masks typically feature \u003cstrong data-start=\"387\" data-end=\"396\"\u003ehorns\u003c\/strong\u003e, while female versions often have a \u003cstrong data-start=\"433\" data-end=\"474\"\u003elarge circular or disc-shaped element\u003c\/strong\u003e above the head. Despite their size, they are designed to be worn and danced in public performances.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"576\" data-end=\"1123\" data-is-last-node=\"\" data-is-only-node=\"\"\u003eCulturally, Bedu masks are believed to embody \u003cstrong data-start=\"622\" data-end=\"657\"\u003eprotective and purifying forces\u003c\/strong\u003e. Their dances are meant to cleanse the community of misfortune, promote health and fertility, and ensure good harvests in the coming year. The performances reinforce social harmony and shared values and are linked to a traditional ritual society that once emphasized spiritual discipline and protection. Mythically, the masks are associated with a powerful animal spirit—often described as buffalo- or ox-like—symbolizing strength, healing, and communal well-being.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"576\" data-end=\"1123\" data-is-last-node=\"\" data-is-only-node=\"\"\u003eThis Bedu mask measures 20 5\/8 x 7 3\/4 x 1 1\/2\" (52.5 x 20 x 4 cm). On the stand pictured here the overall height is 21 3\/8\". You may buy either the mask alone or the mask on this stand. The stand is 20\" tall, making it perfect for a shelf or a table. This mask is also available on a 48\" tall stand,  if you would prefer the mask to stand on the floor. \u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Niger Bend","offers":[{"title":"Mask alone","offer_id":67946554753252,"sku":"lwt1793068083684","price":94.17,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"Mask on a 20\" stand","offer_id":67946554786020,"sku":"zrt1793068083685","price":179.28,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"Mask on a 48\" stand","offer_id":67946554818788,"sku":"dfs1793068083686","price":236.88,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0820\/0103\/5492\/files\/small-nafana-female-bedu-mask---ivory-coast_1.jpg?v=1793068089","url":"https:\/\/willowbarktoner.shop\/products\/small-nafana-female-bedu-mask-ivory-coast","provider":"My Store","version":"1.0","type":"link"}