During the 18th century the Punu had to flee their land, under pressure from the Fang and settled in the south and southwest of Gabon. The Punu belong to a nation of people known as The Shira. This group consists of the Eshira, Lumbo, Vili, Galoa and Vunga people. Although part of this collective, the Punu are well known throughout Central Africa partly because Punu ladies are thought to be very beautiful. Adhering to tradition, only Punu males are allowed to carve tribal masks and then only of Punu women. The masks that portray the ladies are so well liked that they can be found on currency that belongs to several Central African countries. Serving as a source of tremendous tribal pride, the classic Punu "face", properly whitened by kaolin, is basically portrayed whenever appropriately possible. In this case the craftsman chose to incorporate the classic symbol to top a utilitarian object, a village bellows used for a blacksmith's forge. This once again demonstrates the ability of African carvers to turn everyday objects into functioning works of art! The wooden bellows is completely functional after iron pipes are added into the two open holes located at the lower ends. When the leather pulls are moved back and forth forced air is felt.

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Dimensions: The bellows is 2 feet tall x 1 foot across x 5 1/2 inches deep. When placed on the stand the entire piece measures 3 feet tall. 

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