Back to Objects

AFRICAN ART THE IMPOSSIBLE COLLECTION

THE BOOK

/01

While traditional African works of art were created first and foremost in a ritual context, surely that in no way excludes their aesthetic dimension. Made by artists whose audacity, inventiveness, and virtuosic technique can never be sufficiently emphasized, African masks and sculptures—long relegated, wrongly, to the rank of mere “idols” and “fetishes”—tell us rather just how much the African continent is the bearer of thousands of histories, its traditions nourished by countless distinctive sensibilities.

/02

Over twelve chapters that present Fang reliquaries, iconic masks, and terra-cotta pieces while also celebrating the hypnotic splendor of metal, the beauty in utility, and the notion of eternal femininity, author Bérénice Geoffroy-Schneiter dives in detail into the history of African arts, composing with her words and unique selection a true aesthetic manifesto. This edition is the first to gather the most important artworks from around the world, making it the ultimate compendium on African arts.



Complimentary white gloves and a signature canvas tote bag are included with each purchase from Assouline’s Ultimate Collection.

Collections

(01)
(01) (02) (03)

Book
a call

Reserve an exclusive appointment with our curators and be guided through a personalized journey into art.