Punu-Lumbu reliquary head - Gabon
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Current bid
€ 65
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Selected by Julien Gauthier
A decade of experience in historical arms, armour, and African art.
Estimate € 330 - € 380
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Tête de reliquaire Punu-Lumbu, a 47 cm tall wooden sculpture from Gabon belonging to the Punu and Lumbo peoples (Bapunou), dating to the late 20th century, in good condition and not supplied with a stand.
AI-assisted summary
Description from the seller
Origin. Gabon
Tribe name. Bapunou
Material. Wood
Dimension. 47 cm
Shipping method. Colissimo within 24-48h open
A carved figure characteristic of the traditional art of the Punu and Lumbo peoples of Gabon.
The face: It presents an idealized aesthetic with a light complexion, typical of Punu okuyi or mukudj masks. The eyes are represented by half-closed slits, evoking a serene and introspective expression. The eyebrows are arched and well defined.
The coiffure: The figure is topped with an imposing headdress in the shape of a crescent or arch, which frames the face. This hairstyle is punctuated by small regular perforations along its entire contour.
The structure: Unlike a classic facial mask, this piece appears to be an element of statuary or a reliquary. The face is supported by two vertical uprights that spread outward toward a solid base, creating a triangular empty space beneath the chin.
This type of object is traditionally associated with ancestor worship or ritual ceremonies where the spirits of the dead are honored.
Origin. Gabon
Tribe name. Bapunou
Material. Wood
Dimension. 47 cm
Shipping method. Colissimo within 24-48h open
A carved figure characteristic of the traditional art of the Punu and Lumbo peoples of Gabon.
The face: It presents an idealized aesthetic with a light complexion, typical of Punu okuyi or mukudj masks. The eyes are represented by half-closed slits, evoking a serene and introspective expression. The eyebrows are arched and well defined.
The coiffure: The figure is topped with an imposing headdress in the shape of a crescent or arch, which frames the face. This hairstyle is punctuated by small regular perforations along its entire contour.
The structure: Unlike a classic facial mask, this piece appears to be an element of statuary or a reliquary. The face is supported by two vertical uprights that spread outward toward a solid base, creating a triangular empty space beneath the chin.
This type of object is traditionally associated with ancestor worship or ritual ceremonies where the spirits of the dead are honored.
Details
Number of objects
1
Country of Origin
Gabon
Period
Late 20th century
Material
Wood
Sold with stand
No
Condition
Good condition
Title of artwork
Punu-Lumbu reliquary head
Height
47 cm
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