African Masks – The Barbier-Mueller Collection by Iris Hahner-Herzog, Maria Kecskési and László Vajda

African Masks: The Barbier-Mueller Collection is a richly illustrated and authoritative survey of African mask traditions, drawing upon one of the world’s most important private collections of African art. Written by Iris Hahner-Herzog, Maria Kecskési and László Vajda, this substantial volume explores masks not simply as decorative objects, but within the religious, ceremonial, cultural and social traditions for which they were created.

African Masks presents nearly 250 masks from the renowned Barbier-Mueller Collection, representing an impressive geographical and cultural range across Africa. Approximately 100 examples are reproduced in colour, supplemented by black-and-white photographs and detailed catalogue information. The accompanying scholarly texts examine mask construction, symbolism, ritual use and the role of masquerade in African societies. Particular attention is given to the relationship between masks, ancestors, spirits and supernatural forces, as well as their use during religious and secular ceremonies.

Originally published in hardback in 1997, this 2007 Prestel edition offers an accessible yet academically valuable reference for collectors and students. African Masks runs to 287 pages and includes a map of ethnic groups, catalogue of the masks, bibliography and index. The English text was translated from German by John W. Gabriel.

An attractive addition to any collection devoted to African art, tribal art, anthropology, ethnography, sculpture or material culture, this is also an excellent visual reference for collectors of traditional African masks and sculpture.

Condition – Near Fine

2007 softcover in near fine condition. Light scuffing to the covers/boards and light foxing present. Overall a clean, attractive copy with only minor signs of previous handling.