Sowo mask, Sande society — Mendé, Sierra Leone — African tribal art — Ref. 304

Description

This Sowo mask, worn exclusively by the Sande secret society of the Mende in Sierra Leone and Liberia, embodies the feminine ideal and spiritual power. Used during the initiation ceremonies of young girls, it marks their passage into adulthood and their integration into society. This type of mask is the only one in sub-Saharan Africa to be worn by women, unlike the male practices dominant in African ritual art.
Its smooth black surface symbolises ideal skin, coated with oil to accentuate its shine. The calm, stylised features, half-closed eyes and delicately carved lips reflect self-control and wisdom. The rings of the neck, a sign of beauty and prosperity, are also associated with the aquatic spirit that guides the Sande society. The elaborate hairstyle, carefully carved, is a social marker representing the hairstyles worn by high-ranking women.
This wooden mask, tinted black and finely polished, was worn with a plant-fibre costume covering the entire body, erasing any individual identity in order to embody the Sowo spirit. Used during initiations, funerals and major events, it played a central role in the rituals of transformation and education of the initiates.

Technical details

Availability

Unavailable

Type of piece

Masque

Category

Masks

Ethnic group

Mendé

Country

Sierra Léone

Materials

wood

Dimensions

H 40 × W 20 × D 23 cm

Weight

1,2 kg

Estimated dating

second half 20th c.

Laboratory test

Not tested

Reference

304