Gonde Mask

This is likely to be a Gonde mask. The gonde is an entertainment masker that appears together with the dignified ndoli jowei, or dancing Sowei, of the Sande society. It offers a parody of the latter by its own dishevelled appearance and undignified behaviour. The mask is often an old Sowei mask that is too decayed or damaged to be used for its original purpose, which seems likely in this case. It has been splattered with red and white paint.

Further Information

  • Type: Masks, headdresses
  • Object: Gonde Mask
  • Materials: Wood
  • Culture Group: Other
  • Dimensions: Unknown
  • Production Date: Pre 1971
  • Associated Places: Unknown
  • Associated People: Mr. S. Kaimopo (Trader)
  • Museum: Sierra Leone National Museum
  • Accession Number: SLNM.1971.05.03

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