In a hurry? Visit my online selection of African Art Books at amazon. (please note I might get a small commission if you buy) .
Discover the finest books on traditional African art, carefully selected to help collectors, researchers, and art lovers deepen their knowledge. This collection features essential works on authentic tribal masks, sculptures, and artifacts, offering valuable insights into the rich cultural heritage of Africa. Whether you're starting a collection or looking to expand your expertise, these 7 books provide historical context, expert guidance, and stunning visuals to enhance your appreciation of African antiques.
Metropolitan Fetish: African Sculpture and the Imperial French Invention of Primitive Art by John Warne Monroe explores how African art was framed and commodified in France during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The book challenges the conventional narrative that avant-garde artists “discovered” African art, arguing instead that it was systematically shaped by French colonial and commercial interests.
Migrating Objects offers a fascinating look into Peggy Guggenheim’s lesser-known collecting interests beyond the European and American avant-garde. The book highlights her acquisitions of African, Oceanic, and Pre-Columbian art, providing valuable insights into how these pieces fit within her broader vision as a collector. While the research is extensive and brings fresh attributions to light, the book is more about Guggenheim’s collecting journey than an in-depth study of the cultural contexts of these objects. For collectors of African art, it provides an interesting perspective on how tribal artifacts were appreciated in mid-20th-century Western collections but may not delve deeply into their original significance.
Sculptures: Africa, Asia, Oceania, Americas showcases 120 masterpieces from major French and international museums, displayed at the Louvre before the opening of the Musée du Quai Branly. Featuring contributions from 48 scholars, the book highlights significant acquisitions and rare works, offering a comprehensive look at global sculptural traditions.
A World of Belts showcases over 200 extraordinary belts, buckles, and accessories from the renowned Ghysels collection, assembled over 40 years. Featuring pieces from diverse cultures, including amulet cases, decorated loincloths, and carved belt clasps, the book highlights unique craftsmanship and materials. Accompanied by detailed captions, maps, and a glossary, this visually stunning volume is part of a series on ethnic jewelry, offering a rich exploration of global body ornamentation.
Musee Du Quai Branly: Art From Africa, Asia, Oceania, and the Americas presents 300 masterpieces from one of the world’s most unique museums. Featuring sculptures, masks, textiles, and ceremonial objects, the book includes expert essays that explore the cultural significance and artistic refinement of each piece. With rich storytelling and historical context, it offers a deep insight into global traditions and the impact of these artworks on Western art. A must-have for collectors and enthusiasts of non-Western art.
In Praise of the Human Form showcases the prestigious Josette and Jean-Claude Weill Collection, featuring over 120 exceptional works from Africa, Oceania, and the Americas. Known for its bold, expressionistic forms, the collection includes Dogon statues, Kongo power figures, and iconic pieces with significant provenance. Expert essays provide rich context, unveiling this once-private Parisian collection to a wider audience.
Collectors' Visions is a remarkable exploration of how African, Oceanic, Southeast Asian, and American tribal art captivated European collectors, critics, and artists in the 20th century. Christine Valluet presents a compelling narrative on the evolution of taste, highlighting key figures who helped shape the market for these works. The book not only acknowledges the aesthetic power of these objects but also places them within the broader history of collecting. With rare and unpublished pieces, it serves as both a historical study and a guide for discerning collectors. A must-read for those passionate about tribal art.
These seven books offer a deep exploration of traditional art from Africa, Oceania, Asia, and the Americas, showcasing exceptional collections and expert insights. From the masterpieces of the Musée du Quai Branly and the Louvre to the personal collections of passionate connoisseurs, each volume highlights the craftsmanship, cultural significance, and history of these extraordinary works. Whether focusing on sculpture, jewelry, belts, or the human form, these books provide invaluable perspectives for collectors and enthusiasts of non-Western art.
See the list on Amazon: https://amzn.to/4bjFx2k