Helmet mask "sowei" of the "bundu" society ·  Sierra Leone, Mendé · ID: 3032589

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.