Sowei Mask

Carved wooden helmet 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 segmented neck and a plaited hairstyle, adorned with cowrie shells. A cap, or bowl, has been placed on the head.

Related Videos

Further Information

• Type: Masks, headdresses
• Object: Sowei Mask
• Materials: Wood
• Culture Group: Other
• Dimensions: 355.6mm [H]
• Production Date: Pre 1971
• Associated Places: Freetown (Place purchased)
• Associated People: Mr. Chris Konarstic, Freetown. (Donor)
• Museum: Sierra Leone National Museum
• Accession Number: SLNM.1971.02.03

Related Objects