ART IN CONTEXT: The Sowei Mask
ART IN CONTEXT: How is the Sowei Headdress Used?
Initiation Ceremonies
The Sande association is a secret society which teaches
young women to become responsible adults. The elders of the society
perform special initiation ceremonies to welcome the girls into
adulthood. A Sowei mask would be used on such an occassion to celebrate
and teach the Mende feminine ideal. For
three years, young women in the Sande society learn important skills and
rituals that will help them
in their adult life.
The Costume
The headdress is the only African mask known to be worn by
women. It is worn by an elder. The rim of the wooden
headdress rests on her shoulders and a black costume of
natural grasses covers her body. Click on the pictures to
see Sowei headdresses in use!
Introduction
To Inspire Respect For Royalty
To Celebrate A Good Harvest
To Teach Young Women
To Seek Protection and Honor Ancestors
