Sowei Mask

This mask resembles a sowei mask, used by the exclusively female Sande (Mende) or Bondo/Bundu (Temne) societies. Such masks are traditionally worn by a high-ranking member of the society, the dancing sowei, known as the ndoli jowei among the Mende or a-Nowo among the Temne. Worn with a raffia costume, the masks typically have a polished black finish, with neck rings, elaborate coiffure and dignified facial expression. The mask is thought to represent conceptions of idealised womanhood. This example has a five-lobed hairstyle, surrounded by a double ring of cowrie shells, and is painted in glossy black. It is, however, likely unused and may have been carved for sale, rather than use.

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Further Information

• Type: Masks, headdresses
• Object: Sowei Mask
• Materials: Wood
• Culture Group: Mende
• Dimensions: 350mm [H] x 190mm [W] x 240mm [C]
• Production Date: Pre 1956
• Associated Places: Unknown
• Associated People: Methodist Missionary Society
• Museum: British Museum
• Accession Number: BM:Af.1956.10.2

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