Punu Wood Mukudj Mask, Based

Powder-white face, serene eyes, and a crest of braided hair.

Punu artists of Gabon, Central Africa, carved this mukudj mask in wood in the 20th century. Punu masks of this type are commonly associated with masquerade, funerals and ceremonies, and often present an idealised female face. White kaolin pigment covers the face, with slim, downcast eyes, a small red mouth and fine marks on the brow. Above it rises a tall, dark coiffure of ridged braids that sweep down past the ears. The pigment is lightly worn and softly mottled. It sits on a black metal stand.

About 16 inches tall. A face that makes a quiet room feel attended.