Punu Triangular Face Mask, 1950s

Details

Description

Mask originating from the Punu culture in Gabon.
The triangular face is dominated by a wide headdress with a central … Read more Mask originating from the Punu culture in Gabon.
The triangular face is dominated by a wide headdress with a central shell. The balance of the finely sculpted features—half-closed, slanted eyes, arched eyebrows, a short nose, and a mouth with full lips—is accentuated by the grid-like scarification on the forehead. Wear in the kaolin (pembé) coating reveals light brown wood underneath. Dark red highlights adorn the lips and the frontal scarification, while black is used on the headdress.
Masks with frontal scarification, like this one, are one of the typical variations of the white masks of southern Gabon. Their geographical origin lies in the Ngounié and Nyanga regions, near the border with Congo. These masks, known for their ritual use in the region, were called Mukudji and were used during Mbwanda dances, which aim to appease the spirits of the deceased, particularly young women.

Sold with its metal base. Height on base: 54 cm. See less