These enigmatic, rectilinear tubes reveal clarity of thought and took great effort to produce. What can they mean?
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Though many raffia textiles were made as garments for and by both men and women, this one was intended for display.
Double Prestige Panel (Kuba peoples)
This dynamic figure of a Bangwa Fon emphasizes the power, wealth, and privilege of his position.
Figure of a Chief (Lefem) ...
Embodying responsible and wise leadership, the sculpture presents an ideal image of the deceased.
Seated Figure (Tumba) (Kongo peoples)
Although the specific meaning of the imagery is unclear, Yaka masks generally illustrate ideas about gender differences
Headdress (Yaka peoples)
The convento atrium was a place for preaching. This cross taught new converts about Christianity.
Atrial Cross at Acolman
Found in large numbers in burials, these Chinese carvings constitute an enormous effort by skilled craftsman.
Jade Cong
These fascinating spiritual figures became prime targets for the ire of Christian missionaries in the 19th century.
Power Figure (Nkisi Nkondi), Kongo peoples
Since 1960, artists have come up with countless ways to engage audiences on a huge spectrum of topics.
Contemporary Art, an introduction
Why was the original version of this mural at New York’s Rockefeller Center destroyed within months of its creation?
Diego Rivera, Man at the Crossroads
Two famous lovers meet in this miniature—as do Persian and European painting traditions.
Khusraw Discovers Shirin Bathing
How was the funerary and monumental art of Egypt meant to be seen and interpreted?
Ancient Egyptian art
Roman Catholics promoted visual splendor; in the Protestant North, a new middle class meant a new market for art.
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