What is the Masque blanc Punu-Gabon made of?

The Masque blanc, or "white mask," of the Punu people in Gabon is primarily made from wood and often features a white kaolin clay finish, which gives it its distinctive color. These masks are typically adorned with intricate carvings and may incorporate materials such as beads, shells, and fabric for added decoration. They are used in various cultural rituals and ceremonies, symbolizing purity and ancestral connections. The masks are significant in Punu traditions, representing the spirit world and the importance of lineage.