African Ceremonies: A Different Perspective

This extensive catalogue presents 250 African ceramic objects from the collection of HRH Franz, Duke of Bavaria, widely considered to be one of the most internationally significant collections of African ceramics. Featured here are objects dating from the 19th to the 21st century, across the wealth of forms and functions of African ceramics, although primarily focused on ceramic items crafted using a hand-building technique, forgoing the use of a potter’s wheel. Each object is accompanied by insights and analyses from international experts.

The “different perspective” alluded to in the title is first and foremost an artistic point of view. This volume establishes a different, design-focused viewpoint. Instead of a presentation organized by region, as is customary in ethnographic museums and contexts, this book offers a design-historical examination of the vessels and figures.