African Art

MAG’s collection of historical African art dates from the twentieth century and represents works primarily from West Africa, including an exceptional veranda post by Yoruba sculptor, Olowe of Ise.

Highlights

A carved post in the shape of a royal wife standing with hands resting on the heads of her twin daughters.
Veranda Post, 1910-1914
Olowe of Ise
Wood, paint. Marion Stratton Gould Fund, 1971.13
A dark wooden mask with a high forehead, downcast eyes, and small mouth.
Helmet Mask (Sowei)
Mende artist
Wood. Marion Stratton Gould Fund, 1972.52
A crested mask in the shape of an antelope.
Crest Mask: Male Antelope (Chi Wara)
Bamana artist
Wood, raffia, hair, metal. Gift of Robert Horn, 2017.31
A pair of small, wooden human figures.
Ere Ibeji
Yoruba artist
Wood, pigment, beads, cowrie shells, fiber, sacrificial materials. Marion Stratton Gould Fund, 1965.9.1 and 1965.9.2
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More to Explore

Two visitors looking at works of art in the Fountain Court Explore MAG's Collection Visitors sitting outside in the Centennial Sculpture Park. Plan Your Visit Visitors explore artwork in MAG's Docent Gallery. Exhibitions