Created around 1960, the carved cylindrical helmet mask has an eight-plait coiffure with what appears to be a civet on the top of the mask. The mask has Sewa-Mende markings on each cheek, rings around the eyes, and gold earrings on each ear. The mask bears the customary characteristics of Sowei masks, blackened surface, small mouth, nose and eyes, large forehead, three neck rings, and elaborate hairstyle. Holes around the base are for attaching raffia. The mask has a fine patina, 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.
