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Canvas Print : Mende Sowei Mask, Sierra Leone, West Africa
Canvas Prints from Royal Cornwall Museum
Mende Sowei Mask, Sierra Leone, West Africa
Women of the female-only secret society (Sande) of Western Africa used these carved, wooden, masks for initiation ceremonies, marking a womans transition from child to adulthood. During these important occasions a high-ranking member of the society, known as thendoli jowei- thesoweiwho dances would wear the mask on top of her head, with her body covered in a black raffia costume. Accompanied by music, dancing and singing she would appear in public and is viewed as both a physical manifestation of the spirit of the Sande Society and as an embodiment of its powerful medicines. TRURI : 1500.138
Royal Cornwall Museum is the UK's Greatest Museum For Cornish Life & Culture
TRURI : 1500.138
Media ID 18833275
© RIC, photographer Mike Searle
Black Ceremony People Wood Masking Neck Rings Rite Salone
21"x14" (53x35cm) Canvas Print
Experience the rich cultural heritage of West Africa with our stunning Canvas Prints from Media Storehouse. This particular print showcases the intricately carved Mende Sowei Mask from the Royal Cornwall Museum. A symbol of the female-only Sande society in Western Africa, these masks were used during initiation ceremonies to mark a woman's transition from childhood to adulthood. Bring the history and tradition of this significant artifact into your home or office with our high-quality Canvas Prints, expertly printed on heavy-duty canvas and coated with a protective, scratch-resistant finish. Each print is carefully crafted to preserve the vibrant colors and details of the original artwork, creating a beautiful and meaningful addition to any space.
Ready to hang Premium Gloss Canvas Print. Our archival quality canvas prints are made from Polyester and Cotton mix and stretched over a 1.25" (32mm) kiln dried knot free wood stretcher bar. Packaged in a plastic bag and secured to a cardboard insert for transit.
Canvas Prints add colour, depth and texture to any space. Professionally Stretched Canvas over a hidden Wooden Box Frame and Ready to Hang
Estimated Product Size is 35.6cm x 53.3cm (14" x 21")
These are individually made so all sizes are approximate
Artwork printed orientated as per the preview above, with portrait (vertical) orientation to match the source image.
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> Africa
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> Africa
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> United Kingdom
> England
> Cornwall
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> Popular Themes
> Dance
> Royal Cornwall Museum
> Museum Objects
> World Cultures
EDITORS COMMENTS
This print showcases the Mende Sowei Mask, a significant cultural artifact from Sierra Leone in West Africa. The mask holds great importance as it is used by women of the female-only secret society called Sande during initiation ceremonies. These ceremonies mark a young woman's transition from childhood to adulthood. The high-ranking member of the society, known as thendoli jowei or sowei, would wear this intricately carved wooden mask on top of her head while dressed in a black raffia costume. This striking ensemble symbolizes both the physical manifestation of the spirit of the Sande Society and an embodiment of its powerful medicines. During these momentous occasions, accompanied by music, dancing, and singing, she would make public appearances. The Mende Sowei Mask represents tradition and plays a vital role in preserving their rich cultural heritage. Photographed by Mike Searle at Royal Cornwall Museum (TRURI: 1500.138), this image captures not only the beauty and craftsmanship of this unique African art piece but also serves as a reminder of the deep-rooted traditions that shape societies around the world. It stands as a testament to Sierra Leone's vibrant history and offers viewers an opportunity to appreciate its significance within African culture.
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