Okuyi dance mask representing an idealized female face. The - Lot 295

Lot n° 295
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Estimation :
2000 - 2500 EUR
Okuyi dance mask representing an idealized female face. The - Lot 295
Okuyi dance mask representing an idealized female face. The arched eyebrows, the eyes evoked by narrow slits surrounded by bulging eyelids, the short nose and the open mouth, give this face an impression of harmony marked by serenity. Scale-like scarification marks adorn the forehead. The high bun hairstyle is reminiscent of the traditional hairstyles worn by the women of this region at the beginning of the 20th century. This type of mask, used during mourning ceremonies, evokes the soul of a young girl. In Gabonese beliefs, white is the colour of reincarnation. The dancer, hidden by a large costume, was often mounted on stilts. Light wood painted with white, red, black and blue pigments. Remains of a hairstyle ornament made of three cowries on braided fiber. Height: 30 cm. Gabon. Punu country. Old label indicating pongwe.
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