Books

Fang, by Louis Perrois, ISBN: 88-7439-294-X
Chokwe, by Boris Wastiau, ISBN: 88-7439-292-3
Luba, by Mary Nooter Roberts and Allen F. Roberts, ISBN: 88-7439-296-6
Pende, by Z. S. Strother, ISBN: 88-7439-383-0
Bamana, by Jean-Paul Colleyn, ISBN: 88-7439-385-7
Lobi, by Daniela Bognolo, ISBN: 88-7439-349-0

This new series of books consists of monographs on each of the main ethnic African groups. It has been produced by 5 Continents Editions and edited by Anne-Marie Bouttiaux of the Tervuren Museum. The authors of the works are all respected experts in their field. The format more resembles a paperback than a traditional art book, but the presentation is very specific. Each is divided into two parts. The first is a thorough and engaging analysis of the culture in question that explores the significance of the objects to the people that created them. This is accompanied by both historical and current in situ photographs. Facts relating to the origins of the objects in different African cultures and the context of their use and evolution are also the subject of this first part. The second part addresses visual and aesthetic qualities and is composed of photographs that feature major pieces. A thorough bibliography concludes each volume.
The books are intended to be introductions to the arts of the various African groups, and offer the reader the opportunity to gain an overview of each of them. That being said, they will also be useful reference works to more experienced aficionados with a desire to increase their knowledge of the cultures in question.