Sierra Leone Mende Helmman Mask Mask Four sturdy legs

Four sturdy legs

Ivory Mask with Bird - 20th Century

almost abstract expression

making the mask a powerful representation of the qualities esteemed by the Gouro people

the cache-sexe is a garment that holds profound ceremonial importance

Sierra Leone Mende Helmman Mask Mask Four sturdy legsMende Helmman Mask from Sierra Leone The Mende Helmman mask, known as Sowei or Ndoli Jowei, is a revered cultural artifact from the Mende people of Sierra Leone. Traditionally worn by senior members of the Sande society, an all female institution that plays a central role in initiating young girls into adulthood, this mask holds profound spiritual and cultural significance. It is the only known mask in West Africa that is worn exclusively by women,