DepartmentTextiles-Africa

Nyana Mask

NameMask

Maker Nyanachiek Padiet (South Sudan)

Collective/Group Roots Project of South Sudan

CultureSouth Sudanese

Date2020

(not assigned)Juba, South Sudan, Africa

MediumGlass beads, cotton

DimensionsWith straps, measured flat: 4 3/4 × 3/8 × 29 15/16 in. (12 × 1 × 76 cm)
Without straps: 7 1/16 in. (18 cm)

Credit LineMuseum of International Folk Art, Museum purchase, A.2022.23.1

Object numberA.2022.23.1

ProvenancePurchased at a Pandemic Relief Auction hosted by the Ibu Foundation

DescriptionFacial covering or mask made during the COVID-19 pandemic with traditional African beading techniques of Juba, South Sudan. Consists of three rows of long loops of mostly white beads, and some black beaded accents in the design.

The Ibu Foundation is a non-profit organization that elevates and gives recognition to female artisans from around the world with priority given to those whose work represents endangered, culturally significant textile traditions, who have no other means of sustainable income, and who are strong leaders with potential for growth. This mask, made by Nyanachiek Padiet is a mother of two, and joined the Roots Project in South Sudan in 2013. She loves a creative challenge, and this mask was right up her alley! The loop design is a traditional beadwork style in Juba.