Minsereh Figure

This is thought to be a minsereh , or min , figure, though the term has broadly been used to refer to any carved female wooden figures. Min figures are traditionally used as part of the Yasi (Bullom) or Njayei (Mende) society for curing sickness, though they have also been associated with the Sande society. They contain spiritual power which is given to the figure by members of the society rather than the carver. This example wears a number of necklaces and waist beads, with shell, tooth, seed, and glass, beads.

Related Videos

Further Information

  • Type: Figures, sculpture
  • Object: Minsereh Figure
  • Materials: Wood, Bone, ivory, tooth, Glass, Vegetable, organic fibre
  • Culture Group: Mende
  • Dimensions: 1125mm [H] x 210mm x 200mm
  • Production Date: Pre 1960
  • Associated Places: Unknown
  • Associated People: Guy Massie-Taylor (Collector)
  • Museum: Glasgow Museums
  • Accession Number: GLAMG:A.1985.13.ba

Related Objects

Minsereh Figure

Figures, sculpture

Minsereh Figure

Figures, sculpture

Minsereh Figure

Figures, sculpture

Minsereh Figure

Figures, sculpture

Minsereh Figure

Figures, sculpture