Punu/pounou Mask—gabon
Origin. Gabon
Tribe Name. Bapounou
Material. Wood
Dimensions. 30 cm
Shipping Method. Colissimo/DHL within 24–48 hours
This magnificent Punu mask (Gabonese art) stands out for its traditional aesthetic features and its remarkable state of preservation. Here is a detailed description of its elements:1. Structure and Morphology of the FaceGeneral Shape: The mask features an oval face with soft, refined lines, typical of the ideal of feminine beauty among the Punu and neighboring peoples (often associated with ancestor masks known as Mukudj or Okuyi).The Eyes: They are half-closed, sculpted in an almond shape with heavy, prominent eyelids, giving the gaze an expression of serenity, contemplation, and spirituality.The Nose and Mouth: The nose is slender and delicate, surmounting full, rimmed, and slightly parted lips, painted in a dark shade that contrasts with the rest of the face.2. Ornaments and ScarificationsThe headdress: The mask is topped by a voluminous black headdress, richly textured and divided by ridges forming structured geometric patterns.The forehead and cheeks: Characteristic relief patterns are visible, notably a central ornament in the shape of a diamond or braid on the forehead, as well as geometric scarifications (in a checkerboard or herringbone pattern) carved in relief on the temples and cheeks, evoking traditional tribal motifs.3. Patina and PolychromyWhite kaolin: The face is covered with a light patina made of white kaolin (a symbol of purity, the spirit world, and ancestors), a patina that has weathered and worn over time, revealing the underlying wood.Color Contrasts: The interplay of colors is striking between the off-white of the face, the deep black of the headdress, and the dark or burnished accents on the lips and scarifications.4. Back and FasteningsThe back of the mask: The interior is deeply hollowed out, evidence of hand-carved hardwood work. Traces of period tools are visible.Fastening system: A cord made of braided plant fibers is securely knotted on the sides, traditionally used to fasten the mask to the wearer during ritual dances.
Tribe Name. Bapounou
Material. Wood
Dimensions. 30 cm
Shipping Method. Colissimo/DHL within 24–48 hours
This magnificent Punu mask (Gabonese art) stands out for its traditional aesthetic features and its remarkable state of preservation. Here is a detailed description of its elements:1. Structure and Morphology of the FaceGeneral Shape: The mask features an oval face with soft, refined lines, typical of the ideal of feminine beauty among the Punu and neighboring peoples (often associated with ancestor masks known as Mukudj or Okuyi).The Eyes: They are half-closed, sculpted in an almond shape with heavy, prominent eyelids, giving the gaze an expression of serenity, contemplation, and spirituality.The Nose and Mouth: The nose is slender and delicate, surmounting full, rimmed, and slightly parted lips, painted in a dark shade that contrasts with the rest of the face.2. Ornaments and ScarificationsThe headdress: The mask is topped by a voluminous black headdress, richly textured and divided by ridges forming structured geometric patterns.The forehead and cheeks: Characteristic relief patterns are visible, notably a central ornament in the shape of a diamond or braid on the forehead, as well as geometric scarifications (in a checkerboard or herringbone pattern) carved in relief on the temples and cheeks, evoking traditional tribal motifs.3. Patina and PolychromyWhite kaolin: The face is covered with a light patina made of white kaolin (a symbol of purity, the spirit world, and ancestors), a patina that has weathered and worn over time, revealing the underlying wood.Color Contrasts: The interplay of colors is striking between the off-white of the face, the deep black of the headdress, and the dark or burnished accents on the lips and scarifications.4. Back and FasteningsThe back of the mask: The interior is deeply hollowed out, evidence of hand-carved hardwood work. Traces of period tools are visible.Fastening system: A cord made of braided plant fibers is securely knotted on the sides, traditionally used to fasten the mask to the wearer during ritual dances.
1 600 €
Period: 20th century
Style: Tribal Art
Condition: Good condition
Material: Solid wood
Length: 30 cm
Width: 16 cm
Height: 30 cm
Reference (ID): 1813478
Availability: In stock
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