This is an old hand carved wooden mask from the Punu Peoples, Gabon , Africa. Masks of this type are were worn by virtuosic male performers of a stilt dance called "mukudj," which involved towering impressively while executing complex choreography and astonishing feats of acrobatics.The creator of a "mukudj" mask would attempt to capture the likeness of the most beautiful woman in his community. Kaolin taken from riverbeds, which was associated with healing and with a spiritual, ancestral realm of existence, was applied to the surface of the face. By using this material, the artist both celebrated the beauty of a mortal woman and transformed her into a transcendent being.The mask measures 15 x 7 inches. * Note The mask will hang nicely on the wall, or if you wish, we can include a display stand for an additional $34.00.

fair, obvious erosion and wear.