Sowei Mask

A possible sowei mask used by the exclusively female Sande (Mende) or Bondo/Bundu (Temne) societies. The mask is traditionally worn by a high-ranking member of the society, the dancing sowei, known as the ndoli jowei among the Mende or a-Nowo among the Temne. Worn with a raffia costume, the masks typically have a polished black finish, with neck rings, elaborate coiffure and dignified facial expression. The mask is thought to represent conceptions of idealised womanhood. This example has a typical five-lobed hairstyle, with geometric panels. This mask may not have been used as it does not have any holes for raffia.

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Further Information

  • Type: Masks, headdresses
  • Object: Sowei Mask
  • Materials: Wood
  • Culture Group: Other
  • Dimensions: 440mm [H] x 250mm [W] x 260mm [C]
  • Production Date: Pre 1901
  • Associated Places: Unknown
  • Associated People: Thomas Joshua Alldridge (Collector)
  • Museum: British Museum
  • Accession Number: BM:Af.1901.722.9

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