Mende Sowei Sande Society Helmet Mask on Custom Stand Liberia MATTER COLLECTION

The Mende Sowei Sande Society Helmet Mask of Liberia is a remarkable cultural artifact deeply rooted in the traditions of the Mende and neighboring peoples. Crafted from wood, it embodies the spiritual essence of the Sande society, an all-female association responsible for initiation rites and cultural education. Adorned with intricate carvings and often embellished with shells, beads, and pigment, the mask represents ideals of feminine beauty, wisdom, and authority. Typically worn during ceremonial dances and rituals, it serves as a symbol of the society's power and influence in guiding young women through their passage into womanhood, while also embodying a rich artistic legacy of West African craftsmanship and symbolism.

Provenance: Matter Collection

From the collection of Margie and Phil Matter. Margie lived in South Africa, and later she and her husband Phil opened a gallery in Tucson. Everything in this collection was in their home for more than thirty years. Africa Direct recently bought the collection; at 95, Margie wants to share the things she has loved so much. 

Looks like an indigenous repair on the side. 

Height (in) 15.0
Width (in) 8.0
Depth (in) 10.0
Off the stand: 13.0 inches height

154045