Africa

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The British Museum houses one of the world's premier collections of African art. In this beautifully illustrated exploration, John Mack and an international team of artists and scholars utilize this renowned collection to guide readers through the diverse art forms of Africa. Expecting only traditional masks and wooden figures, readers will be surprised by the range of artworks featured, including a Tunisian wedding tunic, a water bottle crafted from ostrich eggshell by the San people, and a multimedia monoprint by a Nigerian artist from 1999. The book uniquely encompasses art from all five regions of Africa, including Saharan Africa, with each section introduced by a British Museum curator who provides essential historical and cultural context. Importantly, this work embodies multiple perspectives; the art reflects the voices of both ancient and contemporary artists engaging with their cultures and the world. Commentaries are contributed by historians, anthropologists, curators, and artists—both local and international—who challenge simplistic notions of "Africanness." African artists also provide insights into their own work and that of their predecessors, while scholars from African universities illuminate the significance of various objects. By presenting a comprehensive view of African art, enhanced by diverse commentary, this book fosters a deeper appreciation for the continent's artistic heritage.