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The Punu reside on the left bank of the Upper Ngoume River (Gabon) and belong to the group of tribes known as Shira which were originally part of the Luango kingdom of Angola. The Punu migrated northwards during the 18th century and settled in the area where they continue to live to this day.
We do not see the Punu statues too often - masks are much more common. The stylized features of this sculpture are similar to Punu masks with characteristic "Asian" eyes, rectangular pattern on their skin, reminding one of the alligator skin and high forehead.
A key on the cheek of this figure alludes to the African proverb "A house with two keys is worth nothing".