Mami Wata

This unusual carving is said to represent Mami Wata, a Mende spirit who lives in water. It depicts a female head with a ridged hairstyle and segmented neck. The figure has the body of a snake, which is coiled round the head.

Further Information

• Type: Figures, sculpture, Religious/ritual equipment, charms
• Object: Mami Wata
• Materials: Wood
• Culture Group: Mende
• Dimensions: Unknown
• Production Date: Pre 1972
• Associated Places: Unknown
• Associated People: H.H. Jackson, La Luz, La Orotava, Tenerife, Canary Islands
• Museum: Sierra Leone National Museum
• Accession Number: SLNM.1972.05.04

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