African Ceramic Punu Mask with Rafia from Gabon

When you click on links to various merchants on this site and make a purchase, this can result in this site earning a commission. Affiliate programs and affiliations include, but are not limited to, the eBay Partner Network.

African Ceramic Punu Mask with Rafia from Gabon:
$76.70

African Ceramic Punu Mask with Rafia from Gabon
Punu masks are carved masks which are stylistically compared to japanese masks, judging by their elegance and symmetry. They\'re a trademark of the Punu tribe who live in the jungles of Gabon and near the border between Cameroon and Gabon along the river Ogowe. Punu masks cannot be mistaken. They are distinguished by their delicate narrow eyes, snub nose, convex dosed lips, arched eyebrows, small ears and typical white face, usually decorated with kaolin. They are always round. The forehead is ina cuboid shape, with high cheekbones. They are women masks made by men. The hairstyle is a voluminous bun, similar to a cowrie shell. Most Punu masks have a diamond shape on their forehead or face consisting of 9 fish scales because according to the Punu tribe the number 9 (3x3) has magical value. It is thought that they are meant for wealthier women because the masks must have a bun as in Africa all goods are carried on top of the head, which undoubtedly ruins the coiffure. The masks are used for burial traditions by dressed in leather or raffia dancers, who perform acrobatic tricks or walk on stilts, thus they are uplifted. To own a Punu mask is a dream of every european collectioner of african art. It\'s such a trademark of Gabon that in its capital Libreville there is a Punu monument. The Punu masks are two main types. The classic Punu from Gabon is usually with a diamond shape. The Cameroon Punu is usually with a cleared face but the common thing, which is specific for this style is the distinctive double, triple or normal bun which in the tribe is made by a special hairstylist. Punu masks are made of different materials but mostly of wood and clay with additional accessories. This mask is made out of clay, secondary decorated, beads are additionally used. It has collectioner\'s value. Measurements - length of mask = 20 cm length of mask with rafia = 32 cm width = 12 cm Part of a private collection. The technology of the clay masks are authentic. It\'s shaped in a mold, baked and then decorated. Origin - Gabon, Africa.
Shipping and HandlingRegistered Air Mail: up to 1 kilogram - $ 18.30
PaymentWe accept paymentsONLYbyPayPal.
OtherPlease contact us if you have any questions or if you are interested in my listing.
The item you see in the pictures is the item you will receive.Check out my other items if you are interested.Thank you Froo | Froo Cross Sell, Free Cross Sell, Cross promote, Marketing, listing Apps, Apps, Application