Minsereh Figure

This resembles 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 has its arms raised upwards, balancing an object on its head. It was originally wearing a set of beads made out of yellow glass, and cowrie shells, around its neck.

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Further Information

• Type: Figures, sculpture
• Object: Minsereh Figure
• Materials: Wood
• Culture Group: Other
• Dimensions: Unknown
• Production Date: Pre 1972
• Associated Places: Freetown (Place purchased)
• Associated People: Mr. Amadu Kamara, Freetown (Trader)
• Museum: Sierra Leone National Museum
• Accession Number: SLNM.1972.03.01

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