Punu Mask, Gabon
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Punu Mask, Gabon
Hemingway African Gallery
88 Leonard St.
New York NY 10013
United States
All Masks |
All Decorative Art |
Punu Mask from Gabon Description of Significance
Punu masks from Gabon are instantly recognizable for their calm white faces, domed hairstyles, and delicate scarification marks. Traditionally worn by male dancers on stilts during funerals and initiations, they were seen as a link to the spirit world and a way to honor ancestors. Their features reflect ideals of feminine beauty—arched brows, almond-shaped eyes, and pursed lips—and rare dark versions were used in nighttime rituals for justice or protection. Their elegance and symbolism even inspired European artists like Matisse, and Picasso himself owned a Punu mask, possibly his very first piece of African art.
Today, Punu-style masks are still carved, though mostly for decoration. Modern versions echo the same serene beauty but are made as wall art or souvenirs rather than sacred objects. Authentic ritual masks remain rare and prized, while decorative pieces make the tradition accessible to a wider audience. In both forms, the masks carry forward a timeless sense of grace and cultural depth.
Country of Origin
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Hand carved in Gabon
Dimensions (inches)
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Depth: 7"
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Width: 9"
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Height: 14"
Sustainable Materials
- Natural paint and stain
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Indigenous wood
Display
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Wall Hanging: the mask includes a wire installed on the back for easy wall hanging.
Shipping
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Subsidized U.S. FedEx Ground shipping: $30
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Smaller pieces are shipped via FedEx Ground in a secure box, with careful packaging to ensure safe delivery. To make fine art shipping more affordable, we subsidize part of the cost.
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Each shipment includes a declared value, requiring a signature upon delivery for added security.
This is a decorative contemporary piece.
Hemingway Gallery carefully selects pieces from artists and collectors whose work aligns with our historical and aesthetic standards. This includes newly created artworks that are actively used in ceremonies, which we deeply value despite their lack of age or antiquity. We recognize these as authentic expressions of artistic and cultural heritage, rather than mere tourist trade items.
Our collection also features works by skilled artisans who create fine art inspired by historic styles, as well as contemporary African pieces that may not fit traditional perceptions of ‘African’ art. We celebrate the evolving aesthetics of the continent, striving to showcase design that moves beyond the conventional ‘tribal’ label, reflecting the innovation and creativity of emerging artists.
Our pricing reflects the asking prices set by the artists, artisans, and art dealers in the African countries where we collect, as well as the real costs of responsibly importing their work to the United States. We are committed to challenging the outdated notion that fine art from Africa should be undervalued. Paying artists fairly is our highest priority, and our pricing is structured to honor their skill, labor, and cultural contribution.
We ship around the world! Our website cannot process automatic international shipping rates. Please contact us directly for custom shipping quotes outside the continental U.S.A., (including Hawaii and Alaska).
Free shipping often means the cost is hidden in the product price, a common tactic that can mislead buyers. In fine art, transparency matters—buyers shouldn’t pay for shipping they don’t use. That’s why our pricing is straightforward, without hidden fees, ensuring fairness whether you pick up your art or have it shipped.
Please email us at info@hemingwayafricangallery.com or call 212-838-3650 with the SKU # for further information about this specific piece.
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