6/3/2023 0 Comments Masked girls in the forestAt the same time, these can be interpreted as rings of fat, signs of fertility and maturity. The concentric rings around the neck of the mask, for instance, represent ripples of water, alluding to the rise of the female spirit out of the watery realm that is its dwelling place. In dancing the mask, the sowei channeled the spirits of female ancestors, becoming an embodiment of mystical power, called a ngafa. The mask reflects this transformation as well as other values of the society, including wisdom and beauty. The mask and its wearer offered a model of ideal behavior for new members to emulate and a demonstration of female virtues and wisdom to the larger community. The sowei mask is unique because it is danced by a woman. In most African cultures, all masks, including those representing female characters, are danced by men. This helmet-like mask, along with a full-body costume made from the raffia palm, would be worn during both secret initiation rituals and the final presentation ceremony by the sowei, or Sande leader, usually a talented performer and high-ranking official in the society. When they had completed this initiation, they were returned to the community and presented in a ritual masquerade as mature women ready for marriage. Girls would be taken into the forest and taught the secret knowledge of women.
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