Nafali Masquerade Costume

This is a complete Nafali masquerade costume. The headdress is made from a wicker frame, covered in cloth, and rimmed with wool tufts. It is decorated with mirrors and cowrie shells. The rest of the costume consists of a cotton suit, covered in raffia cloak, skirt and fringes. The Nafali (Jamonog) is associated with the Mende male Poro Society. It often comes out together with the Goboi, acting as an attendant, or forerunner; it has the ability to control the Goboi. This is one a series of masquerade costumes commissioned by the British Museum's Africa Programme and gifted to the National Museum of Sierra Leone in April 2011 to celebrate the 50th anniversary of Sierra Leone's independence. It was made by Joseph Michael Lahai of the Gbortima Cultural Group.

Related Videos

Further Information

• Type: Masks, headdresses, Costume, dress
• Object: Nafali Masquerade Costume
• Materials: Textile, Leather, animal skin, Shell, Glass, Vegetable, organic fibre
• Culture Group: Mende
• Dimensions: Unknown
• Production Date: 2011
• Associated Places: Bo (Place made)
• Associated People: Joseph Michael Lahai (Creator)
• Museum: Sierra Leone National Museum
• Accession Number: SLNM.2011.003.02

Related Objects