The African continent is a place where diverse ethnic cultures thrive, and the beliefs rooted in each culture have given birth to unique masks and sacred statues. This exhibition introduces the masks and sacred statues that fuse African faith and beauty, exploring their allure.
African masks are not merely decorative objects; they have played a crucial role in rituals and ceremonies, serving as a means to communicate with gods and ancestral spirits. Masks modeled after spirits and animals are believed to imbue the wearer with their power and have been used as mediums to embody people's wishes and prayers.
On the other hand, sacred statues are figures representing gods and ancestors and have been worshiped as objects of faith. The intricately carved sacred statues inspire awe in people with their powerful presence and have served as spiritual support. Among them are objects treated as "fetishes" believed to possess potent magical power.
Created from the diverse religious sentiments and unique ideas of Africa, masks and sacred statues not only fulfill roles in rituals and ceremonies but also possess artistic elements and are valued as works that pursue sculptural beauty.
Unravel the meanings and stories imbued in the diverse masks and sacred statues used by various ethnic groups in Africa, and experience the profound spiritual world of the African people and the depth of the sculptural beauty that has emerged from it.
DR Congo
Kuba people
Angola
Chokwe people
DR Congo
Songe people
Nigeria
Yoruba people
DR Congo
Luba people
The intricate and powerful sculptural beauty nurtured by the rich lands of East Africa lives on in the traditional carvings of the Makonde people, who reside in Tanzania and Mozambique. Their works vividly capture the forms of humans and spirits.
This exhibition features the works of two masters who represent modern Makonde sculpture: Chanuo Maundu (1930s–1994) and Dastani Simoni (1935–2005).
Chanuo created Shetani figures—mythical spiritual beings rooted in the word "Satan"—and semi-abstract human forms with refined, meticulous carving. His astounding originality and flowing curves arose from his extraordinary sensibility and masterful control of materials.
Dastani, on the other hand, developed a unique style by blending the strong influence of Giacometti with traditional Makonde forms. His sculptures are known for their dynamic, fluid shapes and boldly abstracted Shetani figures. He is internationally acclaimed as an innovator of Makonde sculpture.
The works of these two artists, each with their own distinctive voice and exceptional skill, are brimming with the energy of life. We invite you to immerse yourself in the compelling world of Chanuo and Dastani—two brilliant talents in Makonde art.
Chanuo Mandu
Chanuo Mandu
Chanuo Mandu
Dastani Simoni
Dastani Simoni
Dastani Simoni
