African Arts Gallery

Mende Statue probably relating to bundu ritual initiations. Localized abrasions, minor drying cracks, black oiled patina.
The Mende, Vaï and Gola cultures of Sierra Leone, Liberia and the west coast of Guinea are known for their helmet masks, including those of the Sandé female initiation society which prepares young people girls at the wedding. Mende masks are made by men and worn by women. The Bassa group of Liberia is established in the coastal region, more particularly around Grand-Bassa.