Yassi Society figure

This figure was recorded by the Sierra Leone National Museum as a minsereh , or min , figure, though the term has broadly been used to refer to any carved female wooden figures. Min figures are traditionally used as part of the Yasi (Bullom) or Njayei (Mende) society for curing sickness; this example is labelled a Yassi figure . They contain spiritual power which is given to the figure by members of the society rather than the carver. The form of this figure, however, rather resembles Limba woodcarving, identified by its straight neck and small facial features.

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Further Information

  • Type: Figures, sculpture
  • Object: Yassi Society figure
  • Materials: Wood
  • Culture Group: Limba, Bullom
  • Dimensions: Unknown
  • Production Date: Pre 1970
  • Associated Places: Tonko Limba Chiefdom (Possible place collected)
  • Associated People: Amadu Jalloh, Tonko Limba Chiefdom (Trader)
  • Museum: Sierra Leone National Museum
  • Accession Number: SLNM.1970.10.04

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