Sande Society Masks

Sande is one of many secret societies found across coastal West Africa, but with a singular distinction: its membership is entirely female. Also known as Bundu or Bondo, the society originated in Sierra Leone and has spread not only across the region’s normally well-observed ethnic boundaries, but also across the political border into Liberia.

Although Sande’s specific practices remain largely secret, its helmet masks are both emblematic of membership and entirely public-facing. Characterized by large domed foreheads, small composed faces with downcast eyes, ringed necks, and elaborate coiffures, the masks embody cultural and societal ideals of feminine beauty. Many also incorporate symbols of authority or protection — amulets, animals, and tools that reference aspects of community life or moral allegory.

Worth noting, these masks are also known as ndoli jowei, “the dancing sowei” (sowei being the term for the spirit thought to inhabit the mask). They are carved from single blocks of wood by men, most frequently on commission. The dark color is gained through the application of stains or paints. Before the broad availability of enamel or boot polish which predominate now, the color is said to have been the result of stewed and fermented leaves which were then finished with palm oil for shine and color depth.