Photographs © Tim Hamill
MENDE, BUNDU HELMET MASK 7, 15.5", $500
Please note: Most of the fourth figure, on the back of the mask, has been lost. There is also evidence of a crack up the back that has been repaired and fastened with a large metal staple.
Bundu (or Sande), a women's association, is almost unique in Africa in
that it controls the use of these masks, which embody Sowo, their guardian
spirit. The masks usually include an elaborate hairstyle and attempt to
represent serene feminine beauty, with high foreheads, small, compressed
facial features, and voluminous neck-rings, depicting the desirable full-figured
woman. Originally all had a dark raffia collarand were worn with a full,
dark costume of raffia on cloth.
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