Carved Circular Oware

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Masters Traditional Games has gone to great lengths to obtain genuine Oware boards from West Africa. It is easy to buy Chinese-manufactured boards but why do that when you can have the real thing?

Mancala is the classic game of Africa that could well be the oldest board game in the world. There are hundreds of versions of the game through Asia and Africa but Oware from West Africa and the Caribbean is the best known. It is also the version of Mancala usually played at competition level; however it is simple to learn and is great for children, enhancing both maths and strategy skills.

These boards are particularly impressive with an exterior that has been ornately hand-carved in a deep three-dimensional relief scene called 'Benin Chief'. They are made from a stained hardwood of the Mahogany family which produces an attractive faded effect. The inside features more carving and has two storage bowls for captured seeds that are conveniently positioned in front of the players. This game makes a spectacular gift for someone who appreciates genuine ethnic craft.

It includes real Bonduc seeds and a rules sheet.

The game is hand-made by a Ghanaian craftsman. It is has a beauty of its own that is typical of the region but as with all hand-made products, there may be minor imperfections and patterns may vary. NOTE: Not suitable for children under 5 years old due to small components that represent a choking hazard.