Created around 1940, the carved cylindrical helmet mask has one protruding bun, resembling a small hat, at the top of an elaborate coiffure. The mask has detailed eyebrows, three tribal marks on each cheek, as well as holes in the crease of the neck, apparently for ventilation. The mask bears the customary characteristics of Sowei masks, blackened surface, small mouth, nose and eyes, large forehead, neck rings, and elaborate hairstyle. Holes around the base are for attaching the raffia. Mask shows sign of use and is in excellent condition.
GEOGRAPHY / CULTURE GROUP: Sierra Leone, Mende. The Mende people are a population of farmers. They take tremendous pride in their cultural practices. The society is arranged in chiefdoms of different lineages. The Mende have very strong traditional societies that moderate social behavior and cultural practices. The societies also play major roles with rites of passage, divination, and healing. The Mende mystical and cultural beliefs help to bind people into communities. Notable among the Mende secret societies are the Poro, Sande and Wunde societies.
