“The Power of Beauty” – Gabon

Mask of a Punu woman, whose responsibility for the livelihood of her family grants her and the other females of her tribe an influential status. The face is painted red as a symbol of love, and the protruding mouth is painted white as a symbol of wisdom. Both sides of the face are painted blue, symbolizing health, and the entire head is painted white, symbolizing wisdom and the communion with tribal ancestors.