click on photos to enlarge -
to see older posts click on "older posts" below
an index of previous posts can be accessed on right in "Blog Archive"
This picture was taken at the village of Tokpombu in Nongowa Chiefdom in early 1970. It shows women of the local Bondo society carrying a spirit known as Kendwi. They are on Dama Road as it heads out of Kenema toward Dama Chiefdom. Although I was never able to obtain an adequate explanation of this spirit, it seemed to represent the ending of Bondo training. Its appearance was that of a covered body on a platform. This was carried about by the women as they moved about the village almost in a frenzy. I did have the sense that this spirit was a more serious one and that its meaning to the women who carried it about was quite meaningful. Anyone out there who might be able to add to my impression - please feel free to do so. I would appreciate it.
No comments:
Post a Comment