African, Mozambique; Makonde
Helmet Mask, 20th century
wood, hair, patina

 
African, Ivory Coast; Senufo
Ceremonial Dance Horse (Poro Society), 20th century
wood




 
  The majority of items in the collection were made to function within the bounds of religious and political ceremony. Ornamented stools indicate political office and rank, while masks link the world of the living with the spirits of the world beyond. Wooden effigies and zoomorphic figures can honor the dead by summoning spirits, which protect communities from malevolent events or otherwise serve as instruments of social control and symbols of male power.

The African art object has often been presented in Western museums within the framework of tradition, but the same piece and its meaning can also be seen to be in a perpetual state of transition. As a work passes through time from individual to individual and from culture to culture, it is drained of its traditional meanings, only to be imbued with new ones that make it relevant to its present audience. Against this backdrop, WCMA has set out to enable its audiences to better appreciate the complex diversity and creativity of African artists, past and present. Through study of African objects, students can explore the art and religion, philosophy, politics, and history of a given civilization.
 

Please call WCMA to see when these works of art will be on view.