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| White Mask from Gabon, Africa |
This white mask is typical of those made by the Punu people of southern Gabon. It is made of wood (although they are often made of 'precious' metals such as copper). It is covered in pigment derived from white clay and the face, especially the half-closed eyes, is meant to evoke a meditative female serenity. The mask, however, would generally be worn by a male dancer in a ceremony.
The influence of African art on major European art is often overlooked but look at this detail from a painting by Pablo Picasso!
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| Nude by Pablo Picasso 1907 |
10 comments:
From the illustrious pen of the fabulous Sir Tom Eagerly:
You know Bazza, when I awoke from some drunken slumber the other day I turned around in bed and saw Lady Eagerly looking at me with that exact expression. I can tell you dear boy that I woke up pretty quickly after that shock!
Sir Tom! I thought you'd shuffled off this mortal coil. Welcome back from wherever you've been.
I am sure Lady Eagerly would have equally shocked at the sight of you in the morning.....
I had a nun in grammar school who bore a resemblance to that mask.
Arleen, you have my sympathy! But, on the other hand, she may have been inwardly serene.
I don' think so.
Hi bazza,
Very interesting, especially the obvious influence of such things on European art, as shown in the Picasso painting.
And, I could use some of that inward serenity myself!
Very Best Wishes, bazza,
David.
This is fascinating art. I went to a museum once that exhibited mainly African Art and I found it so interesting!!
David: Would you want the serenity if that face came with it? :)
Patrycja: Welcome. Thanks for your comment. Your have some wonderful photography on your Blog!
Optimistic Existentialist: Hello Keith, thanks for visiting. I enjoyed your 10 favourite places to visit. I have been to some of them and I live in London (I also have a cousin who lives over in Lexington Kentucky!)
I share your fascination with African art.
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