Helmet mask "sowei" of the "bundu" society · Sierra Leone, Mendé · ID: 3032589
Christie’s Paris, Art Africain et Océanien, 1 décembre 2010, lot 74
Description
wood, beautiful dark brown shiny patina, of typical form: cylindrical, with a compressed diamond-shaped face and voluminous neck rolls, five-parted coiffure, slightly dam., minor missing parts, small traces of insect caused damage;
“sowei” masks are commissioned and worn by women, although carved by men. They are associated with the education and socialization of young females, and their excision ceremonies are supervised by the “bundu” or “sande” societies. Senior woman wear these masks at the termination of initiation ceremonies in order to embody their patron spirit a persona of fecundity and grace, known as “sowei”. The neck rings, which are a significant characteristic of all “sowei” masks should not be regarded as representing obesity but of placing a plastic emphasis on the fine lines of the neck which are highly esteemed and regarded as being beautiful.
L’objet Helmet mask “sowei” of the “bundu” society avec l’ID d’objet 3032589 a fait partie de la dernière vente aux enchères 68th tribal art auction dans 3 mars 2012 le Zemanek-Münster Hôtel des ventes. L’objet portant le numéro de lot 76 a atteint un prix de vente de 4 700 €.
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