A Punu African mask

Description

A Carved wooden mask with kaolin clay covered surface accented with a red mineral pigment.
Such
masks 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.
This mask measures 9 x 7.25 inches A
display
stand will be included.
Provenance:  Ex- Lavina Tackberry collection, Eye On Design Gallery 1993, Ill.