Name/Title

Punu Style Mask

Description

This white-faced mask, characterized by its elegant features, forehead scarification patterns, and elaborate coiffures, is rich in cultural significance. Representing the spirit of an ancestor from the afterworld, these masks hold a special place in funeral rituals, where stilt dancers often wear them to honor the deceased. The masks' striking appearance, with their serene expressions and intricate details, reflects the reverence and respect accorded to the ancestors in these ceremonies. The forehead scarification patterns, unique to each mask, signify lineage and heritage, while the elaborate coiffures add a sense of grandeur and mystique. Through their use in funeral rituals, these masks serve as a powerful link between the living and the dead, ensuring that the spirit of the ancestors is remembered and honored for generations to come. Masks like these white-faced masks represented the spirit of an ancestor from the afterworld and were often used by stilt dancers for funeral rituals. They are known for their elegant features, forehead scarification patterns and elaborate coiffures.