African Art Close-up

by Chris Spring

Featuring a rich array of magnificent artworks from the British Museum and beyond, the book showcases some of the most exquisite works of wood, stone, ceramics, beadwork, textiles and metalwork from Africa – from the Mediterranean coast to the Cape and from the Atlantic to the Indian Ocean.

Beginning with an introduction to the very nature of African art, each of the artworks is then explored within its wider cultural and historical context, with chapters relating to contemporary art, masquerade, specific materials (such as cloth, precious metals, wood and iron), gender, tools, and arms and armour. Close-up views of individual details will allow the reader to see these pieces in a new way, while the author points out unexpected juxtapositions across a wide range of cultures, periods and media. Presenting a spectacular view of African art, this stunning book also offers tremendous insight into African culture.

144 pages, Paperback

Published October 15, 2015

Reviews

[H · Rating 4 out of 5]

3 and a half Stars, A holistic introduction to some ideas and culture behind the pictured historical and contempory artifacts/objects, some of the text is reiterated in some chapters, so you have the option to dip in, like a coffee book if wish. A nice starting point for general interest.