Helmet mask "ndoli jowei" ("nòwo" / "sowei")

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Description

wood, rest., base

“Ndoli jowei” depicts a women in her physical prime, with smooth, glistening skin, neck creases and an elaborate coiffure.

Duiker antelope horns are carved into the hairstyle in some places, probably symbolising medicine (or vessels for it). At the back of the head is a rectangular compartment with carved cowries symbolising wealth, power and prestige. The crowning water turtle, a creature that can live in two elements, is regarded by the Mende as a mediator between this world and the world beyond, as a traveller between two worlds.

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Comparing literature

Gottschalk, Burkard, Bundu, Buschteufel im Land der Mende, Düsseldorf 1990, p. 124

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