Steatite Head

This is a steatite head, with features resembling those of a nomoli. The age of nomoli's are 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 mahe yafei . This steatite head has broad features, and a hole bored into its forehead.

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Further Information

• Type: Figures, sculpture
• Object: Steatite Head
• Materials: Stone
• Culture Group: Other
• Dimensions: Unknown
• Production Date: Pre 1969
• Associated Places: Fanima Town, Sorobwema, Pujehun (Place collected)
• Associated People: Mr. Mohamed Mansaray
• Museum: Sierra Leone National Museum
• Accession Number: SLNM.1969.02.03

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