Punu Mask

$400.00

The Punu are from western and central Gabon they live near the upper Ngoumie River. They reside in villages that are divided into groups and families. There are mainly two purposes for masking, to communicate with the spirit of an ancestor and to be a vessel of one their spirit beings. Like many of the other African tribes converted by Islam, the Punu no longer practice these ceremonies that appease their gods or ancestors. Rather, the Punu is an initiation society that serves as passage of rite for youths into adulthood.
There are two types of mask feminine and masculine. The masculine masks have less attractive features. They are asymmetrical, if they have teeth they are misshapen, they have a darker complexion and they are associated with male ancestors or spirits. The feminine masks are lighter complexion or white because it is associated with the foreign women Europeans that were regarded as kind benevolent and gentle. Feminine masks are symmetrical, beautiful, and aesthetically pleasing to the eye. Although, the masks are gendered the masquerades are generally performed by men, with women watching only.
Mask of this quality are usually hung in the living room, dining room, or study. We imported this mask straight from African crafts men. It is our goal to provide you with quality products.