Punu-pounou Mask - Gabon
Origin. Gabon
Tribe Name. Bapounou
Material. Wood
Dimensions. 32 cm
Shipping Method. Colissimo/DHL within 24–48 business hours.
Private French collection
This magnificent Pounou mask (originally from Gabon) displays the classic stylistic and aesthetic characteristics of this ethnic group.Here is a detailed description of the piece:Aesthetic and Morphological CharacteristicsFace and Complexion: The face has a soft oval shape, characterized by a light patina (often made from kaolin), which contrasts sharply with the dark headdress. This color choice traditionally evokes spirituality, purity, and deceased ancestors.Gaze and Eyes: The eyes are half-closed and almond-shaped, conveying an expression of serenity, introversion, and wisdom.Facial Ornaments: Delicate traditional raised scarifications (often in the form of a checkerboard or diamonds, called mboundongo) can be seen on the temples or forehead, indicating the group’s social status and aesthetic identity.Mouth and chin: The mouth is full, finely defined with slightly parted lips colored a dark red or brown, set on a delicately rounded chin.Hairstyle and structureComplex headdress: The mask is topped by a voluminous headdress carved from dark-stained wood, structured into several lobes or tight braids. This type of elaborate headdress reflects the traditional hairstyles of high-ranking Pounou women.Patina and reverse side: The back of the mask reveals raw wood that has been carefully hollowed out to fit the shape of the wearer’s face, as well as the presence of original fibers or cords used for fastening.Pounou masks were traditionally worn during ritual dances (such as the Mukudji) by dancers perched on stilts to embody benevolent spirits or honored ancestors.
Tribe Name. Bapounou
Material. Wood
Dimensions. 32 cm
Shipping Method. Colissimo/DHL within 24–48 business hours.
Private French collection
This magnificent Pounou mask (originally from Gabon) displays the classic stylistic and aesthetic characteristics of this ethnic group.Here is a detailed description of the piece:Aesthetic and Morphological CharacteristicsFace and Complexion: The face has a soft oval shape, characterized by a light patina (often made from kaolin), which contrasts sharply with the dark headdress. This color choice traditionally evokes spirituality, purity, and deceased ancestors.Gaze and Eyes: The eyes are half-closed and almond-shaped, conveying an expression of serenity, introversion, and wisdom.Facial Ornaments: Delicate traditional raised scarifications (often in the form of a checkerboard or diamonds, called mboundongo) can be seen on the temples or forehead, indicating the group’s social status and aesthetic identity.Mouth and chin: The mouth is full, finely defined with slightly parted lips colored a dark red or brown, set on a delicately rounded chin.Hairstyle and structureComplex headdress: The mask is topped by a voluminous headdress carved from dark-stained wood, structured into several lobes or tight braids. This type of elaborate headdress reflects the traditional hairstyles of high-ranking Pounou women.Patina and reverse side: The back of the mask reveals raw wood that has been carefully hollowed out to fit the shape of the wearer’s face, as well as the presence of original fibers or cords used for fastening.Pounou masks were traditionally worn during ritual dances (such as the Mukudji) by dancers perched on stilts to embody benevolent spirits or honored ancestors.
1 100 €
Period: 20th century
Style: Tribal Art
Condition: Excellent condition
Material: Solid wood
Length: 32 cm
Height: 32 cm
Reference (ID): 1811785
Availability: In stock
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