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African Masks

Punu Mask

African Masks - Punu Mask

Punu masks represent the idealised beauty of Punu women, and should only be carved by Punu men.

They are portrayed with their traditional high-domed hairstyle, diamond- shaped scarification marks on their forehead and they often have eyes that display Oriental characteristics.

The elaborate Punu hairstyles suggest that the wearer is wealthy as her hair has not been flattened by the need to carry goods.

Sometimes Punu masks are painted white with kaolin clay to represent the spirits of dead ancestors during funerals.

Since the 18th century, the Punu have lived on the left bank of the Upper Ngoume River in Gabon. They are one of a group of tribes known as the Shira.

 

map of Punu territory

Mouse over the map for a more detailed view of Punu territory.

 

Punu Mask Drawing

Punu Mask Drawing
You can click on the sketch above to view a simplified A4 line drawing
which you may use to help you draw or trace this mask design.

 

You can click on a link below to navigate to any mask.

Baule Mask
Biombo Mask
Bwa Mask
Dan Mask
Goma Mask
Kota Mask
Kwele Mask
Ligbi Mask
Lulua Mask
Lwalwa Mask
Pende Mask
Punu Mask
Senufo Mask
Teke Mask
Woyo Mask
Yohure Mask

 

The African Tribal Artist
The Functions of an African Mask
The Materials for an African Mask
The Patterns of an African Mask
The Styles of African Masks

 

Back to African Mask Index

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