Nomoli

This is a stone figure, known as nomoli in Mende, carved out of steatite, or soapstone. The age of figures like this one is relatively unknown, however there is evidence to suggest that they predate Portuguese encounters with the coastal areas of Sierra Leone in the 15th and 16th century. They are thought to have originally represented chiefs or group leaders. More recently, however, such figures have been re-discovered and used as rice gods to encourage high yields. Many believe them to be naturally formed, rather than carved. Other names that have been used for figures such as this one are pompta or mahei yafei . This example depicts a standing figure. The Sierra Leone National Museum records note that it sold to the museum by a Pa Sorie Kamara who found it on the ground while brushing the bush at Kpasia near Yele. He was told that it would help him in his farming, but since his yields did not improve he decided to sell it to a trader, Lamina Koroma, who subsequently donated it to the Museum.

Related Videos

Further Information

  • Type: Figures, sculpture
  • Object: Nomoli
  • Materials: Stone
  • Culture Group: Other
  • Dimensions: Unknown
  • Production Date: Pre 1965
  • Associated Places: Kpasia, Yele
  • Associated People: Lamina Koroma (Donor); Pa Sorie Kamara (Collector)
  • Museum: Sierra Leone National Museum
  • Accession Number: SLNM.1965.92.01

Related Objects

Nomoli

Figures, sculpture

Nomoli

Figures, sculpture

Kofon Figure

Figures, sculpture

Nomoli

Figures, sculpture

Nomoli

Figures, sculpture