Punu Wood Carved White Painted Face Mask
Punu Wood Carved White Painted Face Mask
Punu Wood Carved White Painted Face Mask
Punu Wood Carved White Painted Face Mask
Punu Wood Carved White Painted Face Mask
Punu Wood Carved White Painted Face Mask
Punu Wood Carved White Painted Face Mask
Punu Wood Carved White Painted Face Mask
Punu Wood Carved White Painted Face Mask
Punu Wood Carved White Painted Face Mask
Punu Wood Carved White Painted Face Mask
Punu Wood Carved White Painted Face Mask Punu Wood Carved White Painted Face Mask Punu Wood Carved White Painted Face Mask Punu Wood Carved White Painted Face Mask Punu Wood Carved White Painted Face Mask

Punu Wood Carved White Painted Face Mask

16400

$2,450.00
/
Shipping calculated at checkout.
  • Free insured US shipping on most pieces
  • Guaranteed authentic, with signed certificate of authenticity
  • 14-day returns

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from southern Gabon, Central Africa, 

The mask is characterized by its hollow, oval-shaped face that tapers elegantly to a pointed chin. The perimeter is decorated with incised striations, and the surface shows signs of age, including splits along both sides—one of which is notably large—as well as minor chips, scratches, and imperfections, all contributing to its authentic, time-worn patina.

The mask features an elaborate, striated coiffure painted in dark pigment, rising in bold, sculptural ridges above the head—a hallmark of Punu artistry symbolizing status and beauty. The mouth is modeled with raised, pursed lips, while the nose is small and wide. The mask’s eyes are almond-shaped and pierced, often referred to as “coffee bean” eyes, set beneath dramatically arched brows. Semi-circular ears are carved in low relief, and the forehead bears scarification marks, a traditional signifier of identity and beauty within the Punu culture.

The face is covered in white kaolin, a sacred clay that represents both the spirit world and ideals of purity and feminine beauty. Such masks were historically worn by male dancers on stilts during important ceremonies—including funerals, ancestor veneration, and rites intended to ensure fertility and community protection. The kaolin surface and indigo scarification grooves are typical of masks used to honor ancestors and connect the living with the spiritual realm.

Size  15.5 inches height (plus custom mount), 

Provenance  Ex Barsky Collection, Sutton Place, acquired from Damien Reehers, Brussels.

Every object is guaranteed authentic and as described, and has been legally acquired and imported in accordance with U.S. and applicable foreign regulations on the movement and sale of antiquities. A signed certificate of authenticity with a description and photograph accompanies this object. Any restoration is described on the invoice.

Free insured shipping within the United States on most pieces; oversized works are quoted at checkout. We pack and ship ourselves, usually within two business days. International shipping by USPS or DHL is calculated at checkout; if your country is not listed, write to us. Customs forms state the full value; international buyers are responsible for duties and taxes.

Any object may be returned within 14 days of receipt for a refund or credit. Contact us first. See Buying from Us.

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