The author of this study, Z.S. Strother, spent nearly three years in Zaire studying Pende sculpture. Her research reveals the rich history and lively contemporary practice of Central Pende masquerade. She describes the intensive collaboration among sculptors and dancers that is crucial to inventing masks. Sculptors revealed that a central theme in their work is the representation of perceived differences between men and women. Far from being unchanging, Pende masquerades promote unceasing innovation within genres and ...
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The author of this study, Z.S. Strother, spent nearly three years in Zaire studying Pende sculpture. Her research reveals the rich history and lively contemporary practice of Central Pende masquerade. She describes the intensive collaboration among sculptors and dancers that is crucial to inventing masks. Sculptors revealed that a central theme in their work is the representation of perceived differences between men and women. Far from being unchanging, Pende masquerades promote unceasing innovation within genres and invention of new genres. This book sets out to demonstrate, through first-hand accounts and many illustrations, how Central Pende masquerading is a contemporary art form fully responsive to 20th-century experience.
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Seller's Description:
Very Good in Very Good dust jacket. 0226777324. KB8...xxvii, 348 pp. Notes, bibliography, index. 8 colour plates, 110 texts figures. Oblong octavo. Black dust jacket with photo of Khoshi Mahumbu dancing the mask Mbangu. DJ has very minor shelf wear, few faint finger marks, otherwise clean and nice. Book itself is crisp and clean. Beautiful copy of this important work. "Masks play an important part in the life of the Pende, as with many Central African peoples. Strother has produced an in-depth scholarly study of Pende masquerade traditions, especially during and following the colonial experience. What makes the book notable is Strother's focus on creativity and the processes of artistic innovation, which the author contends have kept those masking customs vital. While much of the research is based on the contemporary situation, a precolonial and early-colonial art history is also incorporated as an important part of the study." (Library Journal); 8vo 8"-9" tall; 348 pages.
