Half figure "nomoli" · Sierra Leone/Guinea/Liberia, Sapi · ID: 3038560
Bruce Frank, New York, USA
Description
soapstone, greyish brown, slightly dam., minor missing parts, wooden base;
the term “Sapi” comprises the Sherbro, Bulom, Temne and Kissi peoples in Sierra Leone, Guinea and Liberia, known in art history by their works in soapstone. Sculptures generally referred to by the Mende term “nomoli” are for the most part found in south-eastern Sierra Leone. There is another group of carvings, found further inland, and nowadays referred to by the Kissi term “pomdo”. The Kissi believe that they are manifestations of their deceased ancestors and place them in ancestor shrines. The Mende for their part look upon them as “rice gods”, and make offerings to them to increase their harvests.
Comparing literature
Schädler, Karl-Ferdinand, Encyclopedia of African Art and Culture, Munich 2009, p. 532 f.