Spirits Speak : A Celebration of African Masks. Catalogue Entries by Iris Hahner. [Transl. From the German by John W. Gabriel] – Stepan, Peter and Iris Hahner:

Description

Over 150 images of outstanding African masks from the world’s leading museums and private collections reveal the splendour and majesty of these fascinating masterpieces. The masks seen in these pages represent diversity and an aesthetic power that rivals the most famous works of art from around the world. Originating from more than thirty countries, the masks featured here are shown in stunning full-page reproductions and accompanied by field photographs. Enlightening commentaries offer background information about the function and origins of the masks use within the ethnic groups from which they originate. A beautifully produced full-colour fold-out map places each mask in its original site, which together with the stunning reproductions, field photographs and text, creates a magnificent celebration of African artistry and culture. It is the ‘best of’ African masks book. “Prestel’s African Masks” by the same author has sold over 40K copies worldwide.