This extremely old mask dating back to the late 19 century has a dramatic built-up patina, including palm oil stains, and eight vertical slits below the chin. Said (by Sande Majo) to have been created in the late 1800s, the carved cylindrical helmet mask has an elaborate coiffure with five protruding plaits. The mask has Sewa-Mende markings on each cheek and the customary characteristics of Sowei masks, blackened surface, small mouth, nose and eyes, large forehead, an uneven number of neck rings, and elaborate hairstyle. The rare double rows of holes around the base are for attaching raffia. The mask has been used in Sande rituals and remains in excellent condition considering its age.
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.
