Punu Mask (3)

Originating from Gabon these masks represent the idealized beauty of Punu women and should only be carved by Punu men.

They are potrayed with their traditional high-domed hairstyle, diamond-shaped scarification marks on their forehead and they often have eyes that display oriental characteristics.  The elaborate Punu hairstyles suggest that the wearer is wealthy as her hair has not been flattened by the need to carry goods on her head.

Sometimes Punu masks are painted white with kaolin clay to represent the spirits of dead ancestors during funerals.

This mask comes on a custom made stand and is approximately 52 cms tall (including stand).