African mask with stand

Description

Beautiful masks of the Punu ethnic group traditionally used in rituals marking the passage to adulthood, marriage or death. This ceremony, known as Okuyi, is practised by many Bantu peoples in Central and West Africa.

The Okuyi mask is an idealised representation of the female face, including scarifications and the toupee hairstyle that is so popular in Bantu societies. The nose, however, is rare in these ethnic groups, as are eyebrows and eyes. The white tone of the face represents peace.

It is a very expressive carving whose features are intended to convey serenity. It is made of soft wood pigmented with kaolin.

The Punu are an ethnic group with no political hierarchy or power structures, and their way of life is based on ancestor worship. They are based in the south-west of Gabon. This mask comes from the Lambarené region.

Additional Information

Height: Base (37 Cm) Masque (33 Cm) Base+masque (50 Cm)
Width: 19 Cm
Length: 18 Cm
Weight: Base (899 Grs) Masque (526Grs)
Colour: Brown pigments with natural white
Material: Acacia wood