Metal Print > Arts > Music > The Who
Metal Print : Mende Sowei Mask, Sierra Leone, West Africa
Metal 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
16"x24" (61x41cm) Metal Print
Discover the captivating beauty and rich cultural history of the Mende Sowei Mask from Sierra Leone, West Africa. Part of the Media Storehouse collection, this stunning Metal Print showcases an exquisite piece from the Royal Cornwall Museum, brought to life through our innovative printing process. The intricately carved wooden mask, traditionally used by women of the Sande secret society for initiation ceremonies, marks the transition from childhood to adulthood. Add this unique and meaningful piece of art to your home or office, and let the story of the Sande society inspire and enrich your space.
Made with durable metal and luxurious printing techniques, our metal photo prints go beyond traditional canvases, adding a cool, modern touch to your space. Wall mount on back. Eco-friendly 100% post-consumer recycled ChromaLuxe aluminum surface. The thickness of the print is 0.045". Featuring a Scratch-resistant surface and Rounded corners. Backing hangers are attached to the back of the print and float the print 1/2-inch off the wall when hung, the choice of hanger may vary depending on size and International orders will come with Float Mount hangers only. Finished with a brilliant white high gloss surface for unsurpassed detail and vibrance. Printed using Dye-Sublimation and for best care we recommend a non-ammonia glass cleaner, water, or isopropyl (rubbing) alcohol to prevent harming the print surface. We recommend using a clean, lint-free cloth to wipe off the print. The ultra-hard surface is scratch-resistant, waterproof and weatherproof. Avoid direct sunlight exposure.
Made with durable metal and luxurious printing techniques, metal prints bring images to life and add a modern touch to any space
Estimated Product Size is 41.2cm x 61.5cm (16.2" x 24.2")
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.
FEATURES IN THESE COLLECTIONS
> Africa
> Related Images
> Africa
> Sierra Leone
> Related Images
> Europe
> United Kingdom
> England
> Cornwall
> Related Images
> 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.
MADE IN THE USA
Safe Shipping with 30 Day Money Back Guarantee
FREE PERSONALISATION*
We are proud to offer a range of customisation features including Personalised Captions, Color Filters and Picture Zoom Tools
SECURE PAYMENTS
We happily accept a wide range of payment options so you can pay for the things you need in the way that is most convenient for you
* Options may vary by product and licensing agreement. Zoomed Pictures can be adjusted in the Cart.
