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Punu, "Mvudi" Mask
Tribe: Punu (Ashira-Bapunu)
Region: southwestern part of Gabon
Size: 12”
Weight: 1lbs 6oz
Material: wood, kaolin
These white or light brown masks represent the spirits of female ancestors.
They could be worn during mourning but also at birth ceremonies and,
therefore, symbolize a link with loved ones both already dead and just born.
The masks are used during the “mukudji”dance by dancers on high stilts
dressed in skins and raffia cloths. They claimed to have the power of
the spirit of the mask they were wearing and it was the mask that enabled them to perform
this spectacular dance admired by all. Punu masks play also an important
role in the magical rites performed at the full moon to identify a sorcerer.
This mask represents the Punu ideals of feminine beauty: beautiful narrow,
oval face, delicate chin, protruding lips and highly arched eyebrows above
the almond shaped eyes. Unusual, elaborate, rigid and very elegant
coiffure resembles the hairdo of the women living in this region.
Scarification marks (diamond shaped) on forehead.
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