The Best Ivory Coast Handicrafts To Bring Back Home

By Jenna Jolie | Update on: Jun 30, 2023

Ivory Coast, a land of diverse landscapes, vast churches, and verdant hills, welcomes tourists worldwide with a warm heart. Traveling to the Ivory Coast, where the modern and the traditional intertwine to create a captivating mosaic of cultures, tourists will have numerous unique experiences that can hardly be found elsewhere.

In Abidjan markets, you will easily come across a delightful fusion of traditional handicrafts that captivate every curious traveler. From traditional fabrics, exquisite wooden sculptures, and aromatic coffee in quaint boutiques and local markets, you can choose one of those Ivory Coast hand crafts to bring home for your families and friends.

Table of Contents

A Complete List of Unique And Authentic Souvenirs To Consider

A Complete List of Unique And Authentic Souvenirs To Consider

Masks and wooden sculptures

Masks and wooden sculptures stand as captivating souvenirs that epitomize the artistic richness of the Ivory Coast. Despite the societal shifts throughout its history, the arts and crafts scene in this West African country has endured as a vital and meaningful expression of Ivorian culture.

The artisan products found in the Ivory Coast, which were exquisitely created by local craftsmen, offer an insight into the traditions and historical narratives of the diverse groups. Some artisans may even hail from remote regions within the country or neighboring African nations, adding to the diversity and allure of their creations. Their craftsmanship bears witness to the commitment and passion behind each unique piece, capturing the essence of Ivorian culture and creating cherished mementos of this enchanting land.

Crafted meticulously by hand and adorned with indigenous materials, the Dan, Senoufo, and Baoulé masks exemplify the diversity and significance of Ivorian artistic traditions. These captivating creations witness the remarkable skills and cultural heritage passed down through generations.

Amidst the myriad of Ivorian souvenirs, one cannot escape the allure of settlers, intricate masks, statuettes, and wooden or bronze sculptures. From giant elephants, graceful hippos, and giraffes to the symbolic representations of hornbills and the sculpted figures of women, men, and wise elders, each piece carries its own narrative.

Beyond wooden sculptures, travelers can consider musical instruments like awalés and djembes as unique souvenirs for their loved ones. Additionally, vibrantly painted canvases, batiks, and Korhogo cloths showcase the artistic talent of the Ivorian people.

Masks and wooden sculptures are ideal for the best souvenirs from the Ivory Coast

Masks and wooden sculptures are ideal for the best souvenirs from the Ivory Coast

Handcrafted potteries

Located near Bouaké, the pottery village of Tanou Sakassou is a haven for those seeking unique pottery items to bring back as souvenirs. This village is famous for unique potteries made by nearly 300 skilled potters who excel in ceramics and black earthenware pottery inlaid with delicate silica flakes. Their mastery is evident in the exquisite pottery goods displayed in the local markets.

As you explore the markets of Tanou Sakassou, you will encounter a wide collection of pottery items renowned for their delicacy and originality. Picture a vase with handles fashioned into the graceful curves of a human figure or a neck adorned with the sculpted likeness of a woman's head. Gargoulettes featuring two spouts and lids embellished with birds intricately assembled in a circle are just a few examples of particular designs that captivate visitors. Kedjenou pots, canaries, and chef's vases are also displayed there for locals and tourists to purchase.

Katiola is another prominent city where tourists can find reasonably priced pottery items. Here, the talented women of the Mangoro ethnic group showcase their remarkable pottery creations in various forms. Each piece reflects the cultural heritage and creativity of the Mangoro women, showcasing their skill in transforming clay into functional and aesthetically pleasing objects. Delicately shaped vases, jars, flowerpots, and soup tureens showcase the artisans' skill and artistic flair. Additionally, intricately crafted jewelry boxes, ashtrays, and various other containers in diverse shapes and sizes cater to a range of practical and decorative needs.

A village near Bondoukou named Motiamo also thrives as a center for the exquisite art of pottery. This artistic tradition is showcased prominently at the bustling Bondoukou market, which comes alive every Sunday in the vibrant district of Djiminisso. Motiamo's skilled artisans make use of the black clay from the nearby village of Willekehi, where the Tanguin River originates. To achieve a cohesive material, these skillful women blend with red clay, and the resulting pottery embodies the beauty of the natural materials and reflects the artistic talents passed down through generations.

As you delve into the world of Motiamo's pottery, you will encounter a captivating array of handcrafted treasures that can be used either for souvenirs or decorations. Pots, jars, canaries, and bowls emerge, each meticulously shaped with care and creativity. These vessels not only serve practical purposes but also possess an aesthetic allure that is enhanced by the infusion of various animal-inspired forms.

Take a deeper look at some of the top markets in Ivory Coast art through Ivory Coast Art Markets: The Guide for Budget Travelers.

Handcrafted pottery items should be put on your list of souvenirs from Ivory Coast

Handcrafted pottery items should be put on your list of souvenirs from Ivory Coast

Textiles and Leather goods

Textiles and leather goods are great souvenirs that capture the essence of Ivory Coast's artistic heritage. In the town of Korhogo, skilled artisans excel in producing hand-painted textiles known as toiles, which are versatile pieces suitable for adorning walls or adding a decorative touch to any space.

It is highly recommended to come across CAVA, conveniently located between the city center in Plateau and the airport in Port Bouet, to get the most charming traditional fabrics. Its well-maintained lanes brim with a lot of souvenirs and gift items, enticing visitors with a diverse range of choices. From textiles adorned with vibrant patterns to intricately carved wooden pieces and fine leather goods, every corner of this market offers tourists an idea for their souvenirs.

In addition to the grand textile item, as you wander through this vibrant marketplace, you'll discover many kinds of leather goods meticulously crafted by skilled hands in the Ivory Coast, embodying the timeless traditions of the region. Each item with an elegant detail makes it worthwhile buying as a meaningful gift on your trip to this beautiful West African country.

Jewelry and Fashion Accessories

Jewelry should also be put on the list of souvenirs to buy in the Ivory Coast for loved ones, as it is an enchanting way to show gratitude to the people you love.

The Ivory Coast women often wear jewelry daily to grace their attire, from bracelets to rings, pendants to hair ornaments. That's why the jewelry in this nation is diverse in forms and materials. Gold is a ubiquitous metal steeped in historical significance among the precious materials used in Ivorian jewelry. Once exclusively worn by West African royalty, gold objects symbolized power and prestige. The crafting of gold jewelry encompasses many techniques, from the intricate art of lost-wax casting to the delicate precision of filigree work.

The intricately designed necklaces adorned with vibrant beads and elegant bracelets woven with traditional techniques are also great presents from Ivory Coast. To buy Ivorian jewelry, travelers should visit local markets and artisanal centers, where you can find unique pieces of jewelry inspired by meticulous craftsmanship.

You are a traveler looking to experience the vibrant culture of West Africa, so do not ignore the hidden beauty of Ivory Coast Traditional Clothing. Let’s explore!

Ivory Coast is a lovely country worth visiting at least once, whether for its diverse culture or the unique experience it brings us. Travelers are strongly encouraged to apply for an Ivory Coast visa online as the first step for their trips to this interesting country. Wish you many memorable moments on our journey to Ivory Coast!

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