A superb Dark Brown / Black 'Punu' tribe mask sourced from the Punu tribe, Gabon. This is a classic example of the Punu Tribe. It is a Face Mask (Okuyi) and is painted in white and blackish brown. Lozenge-shaped scarification marks on the forehaed represent a more recent adornment known as Okuyi or Mukuyi are intended primarily to entertain audiences on festive occasions and funerals. They fulfill a ritual function of officiating at funerals, where they dance as embodiments of the spirits of female and male ancestors. The scarification patterns of 9 dots arranged in a square or diamond have sexual connotation.

Any questions or for additional photos please email me. To save on shipping costs you are welcome to combine items form The Ebony Tree. Unfortunately some of our items are expensive to ship due to there size & weight. All items from The Ebony Tree are spray treated for any parasites.