What do you see going on in this work of art? Is there a story depicted?

This work of art showcases a past coastal civilization, who used masks to represent power and are only worn by the king.

What different visual elements (ie: line, color, light, proportions, scale, composition, media type etc.) do you notice, and how do they help you make sense of the artwork?

This piece contains a lot of texture, using hair fibers, cowrie shells, beads, and cloth to make the mask. The use of varied medias symbolizes the riches of the king.

What choices do you think the museum made about the object’s display?

The museum decided to group together all the African pieces in the exhibit called “Sakimatwemtwe- A Century of Reflection on the Arts of Africa.”

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