Custom wax surgical masks

In 2020, as many other tailors of Dakar, Senegal, Babacar Diallo turned to producing cloth face masks. Working with a manual sewing machine, Mr. Diallo chose to use inexpensive “African prints” or African wax, choosing patterns which assert local identity and pride. The three examples here are displayed on characteristic carved wooden masquerade masks of Senegal.

Babacar Diallo, Sénégal

April 2021

Designed in Sandaga Market, Senegal

Made in Senegal

Printed polyester-cotton

Theodore Monod Museum of African Art IFAN-CAD