• A replica of an African mask is a memorable gift.red african mask image by robert mobley from Fotolia.com
  
  Africa is the world's second-largest continent. At about 11.7 million square miles, it contains 22 percent of the world's land area. Despite the size of the continent, the peoples of Africa comprise only about a tenth of the world's population. Much of the continent is still relatively wild and retains an air of mystery. A gift that is made in Africa can be not only memorable in its design, but it also can carry some mystique with it.
  
  

Masks

• African masks are intentionally bold and striking. Their design speaks directly of Africa and the culture that produces them. Masks are traditionally worn in social and religious events as part of a tribe's ceremonial costume. There are a number of different styles of African mask, from the antelope-like Kwele mask to more abstract pieces such as the Bwa and Kota masks. Though taditional African masks can be made from a number of different materials, replica masks produced for sale as gifts tend to be made of wood.
  
  

Wood Carvings

• African wood carvings can capture the essence of the African landscape and its inhabitants. A tribal woodcarver learns the craft over many years and produces objects of great beauty and with spiritual meaning. Recurring themes include stylized people and warrior figures, as well as a range of animals native to the continent such as elephant, gazelle, zebra, lion, chimpanzee, rhinoceros, waterbuck and giraffe. The price for wood carvings can vary greatly, depending on the time invested in the piece and the relative skill level of the carver.
  
  

Paintings and Drawings

• African artwork is deeply meaningful and can make a special gift. Themes common to African drawings and paintings include a couple, a mother and child, and a male with an animal or weapon and an outsider. Paintings of couples represent the combined strength of the individuals, while mother and child representations can signify the importance of the planet and its inhabitants. Paintings by African artists working in the West can fetch hundreds of dollars, while a simple print may cost just a few.