Justice Mask Pounou / Tsangui-gabon

Black mask of justice - Pounou / Tsangui - GabonGabonese masks are often named after the rituals in which they participate (Bwiti, bwété, byéri, ngil, emboli, okuyi, mukuyi...).
They intervene in all circumstances vital to the community, rites of a social nature (bereavements, funerals, illnesses), rites of purification or fertility (birth, adolescence, virginity), rites of reconciliation and justice (to re-establish the authority of the chief, good understanding in families, or resolve generational conflicts), or lastly rites of protection (aimed more specifically at attracting the good graces of ancestors or genies...).
Mukuyi masks, commonly known as "white masks", are coated with kaolin, which in ancient times was mixed with pulverized human bone powder.This ritual white blush, still in use throughout equatorial Africa, is called Pfemba.
A sign of communication with the supernatural world, white clay earth is used by both men and women, notably during Bwiti rites .
The nine frontal keloid lozenges represent Punu founding myths, with the central point representing the creator spirit.
The rarer black masks were used to administer justice, to identify sorcerers and thieves, and to organize poison ordeals.Initiates used masks painted black, which were then carefully hidden.