{"product_id":"african-art-punu-okuyi-mask-with-cowrie-shells-gabon-1","title":"African Art Punu Okuyi Mask with Cowrie Shells - Gabon","description":"AFRICAN ART PUNU OKUYI MASK WITH COWRIE SHELLS - GABON (27 CM \/ 10.6 IN)\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eWelcome to Alobalo! Add a striking piece of Gabonese cultural history to your collection with this beautifully crafted Punu mask.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eITEM SPECIFICS\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eFeatureDetailsEthnic GroupPunu (Bapunu)Country of OriginGabonMask TypeOkuyi or MukudjMaterialsCarved Wood, Cowrie Shells, Braided Plant Fibers, Pigment (Kaolin\/Red Clay)Height27 cm (10.6 inches)\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eITEM DESCRIPTION\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThis striking carved wooden mask features the classic hallmark traits of traditional Punu artistry. It is characterized by a high, double-crested coiffure and serene, slit \"coffee-bean\" eyes. A prominent diamond-shaped scarification mark sits at the center of the forehead.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eAdding to its exceptional visual appeal, this specific piece is adorned with a woven crown of natural plant fibers and authentic cowrie shells. The face features a beautiful bi-color pigmentation, contrasting natural red tones with traces of white kaolin clay.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eCULTURAL SIGNIFICANCE\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eIn Punu culture, masks like this one are highly revered and rich with spiritual symbolism:\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e * Idealized Ancestors: The serene expression and intricate hairstyle are carved to represent deceased female ancestors, embodying the ultimate ideal of feminine beauty.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e * The Nine Clans: The distinct diamond scarification pattern on the forehead represents the nine primordial clans of the matrilineal Punu society.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e * Ceremonial Stilt Dancing: These masks are traditionally worn during Mukudj ceremonies, where male dancers perform on towering stilts to honor ancestors and perform community rites.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e * Symbolism: The cowrie shells woven into the headdress are historical symbols of wealth, prestige, and fertility, while the white kaolin clay (often applied to these masks) represents the spirit realm and purity.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eShipping \u0026amp; Handling:\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eCarefully packaged to ensure safe arrival. Please feel free to message Alobalo with any questions regarding this piece!\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eTrack Page Views With\u003cbr\u003eAuctiva's Counter","brand":"Alobalo ","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":48080771973346,"sku":"African Art Punu Okuyi Mask with Cowrie Shells - G","price":140.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0825\/2201\/3922\/files\/cd91b8c1-5b3e-4c02-8871-767c013085d6_29c654ce-c839-4508-acfc-37e234f4ac8c.jpg?v=1784747111","url":"https:\/\/www.alobalo.shop\/products\/african-art-punu-okuyi-mask-with-cowrie-shells-gabon-1","provider":"Alobalo ","version":"1.0","type":"link"}