Minsereh Figure

This is thought to be a minsereh , or min , figure, though the term has broadly been used to refer to any carved full-length 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 is Janus-faced; it has two faces, one pointing forward, and the other backwards.

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Further Information

• Type: Figures, sculpture
• Object: Minsereh Figure
• Materials: Wood
• Culture Group: Mende
• Dimensions: 515mm [H] x 130mm x 111mm
• Production Date: Pre 1960
• Associated Places: Unknown
• Associated People: Guy Massie-Taylor (Collector)
• Museum: Glasgow Museums
• Accession Number: GLAMG:A.1985.13.bh

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