Mende Mask, Sierra Leone | Large | SKU: M820
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Pickup currently unavailable at Hemingway African Gallery
Mende Mask, Sierra Leone | Large | SKU: M820
Hemingway African Gallery
88 Leonard St.
New York NY 10013
United States
All Masks |
All Decorative Art |
Mende Mask from Sierra Leone Description of Significance
Mende masks are among the most recognizable artistic traditions of Sierra Leone and Liberia. Often called Sowei or Bundu masks, they are traditionally associated with the Sande society, a women’s initiation society that guided girls into adulthood and taught ideals of grace, strength, discipline, and social responsibility. Unlike many masking traditions in West Africa, these helmet masks were historically performed by women.
Carved from wood and worn over the head, Mende masks are known for their smooth black surfaces, refined features, elaborate hairstyles, and downcast eyes. These elements are not simply decorative; they reflect Mende ideals of feminine beauty, wisdom, composure, and spiritual power. The mask represents the presence of a guardian spirit and remains one of the most important symbols of Mende ceremonial life.
Today, Mende-inspired masks are appreciated both for their cultural history and for their striking sculptural form. Their bold silhouettes, polished surfaces, and quiet elegance make them powerful works of art for contemporary interiors.
Country of Origin
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Hand carved in Sierra Leone
Dimensions (inches)
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Depth: 11"
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Width: 9"
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Height: 21"
Sustainable Materials
- Natural paint and stain
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Indigenous wood
Display
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Free-standing on the stand shown in the photos.
Shipping
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Subsidized U.S. FedEx Ground shipping: $30
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Smaller pieces are shipped via FedEx Ground in a secure box, with careful packaging to ensure safe delivery. To make fine art shipping more affordable, we subsidize part of the cost.
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Each shipment includes a declared value, requiring a signature upon delivery for added security.
This is a decorative contemporary piece.
Hemingway Gallery carefully selects pieces from artists and collectors whose work aligns with our historical and aesthetic standards. This includes newly created artworks that are actively used in ceremonies, which we deeply value despite their lack of age or antiquity. We recognize these as authentic expressions of artistic and cultural heritage, rather than mere tourist trade items.
Our collection also features works by skilled artisans who create fine art inspired by historic styles, as well as contemporary African pieces that may not fit traditional perceptions of ‘African’ art. We celebrate the evolving aesthetics of the continent, striving to showcase design that moves beyond the conventional ‘tribal’ label, reflecting the innovation and creativity of emerging artists.
Our pricing reflects the asking prices set by the artists, artisans, and art dealers in the African countries where we collect, as well as the real costs of responsibly importing their work to the United States. We are committed to challenging the outdated notion that fine art from Africa should be undervalued. Paying artists fairly is our highest priority, and our pricing is structured to honor their skill, labor, and cultural contribution.
We ship around the world! Our website cannot process automatic international shipping rates. Please contact us directly for custom shipping quotes outside the continental U.S.A., (including Hawaii and Alaska).
Free shipping often means the cost is hidden in the product price, a common tactic that can mislead buyers. In fine art, transparency matters—buyers shouldn’t pay for shipping they don’t use. That’s why our pricing is straightforward, without hidden fees, ensuring fairness whether you pick up your art or have it shipped.
Please email us at info@hemingwayafricangallery.com or call 212-838-3650 with the SKU # for further information about this specific piece.
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