Kongo

A compelling examination of one of the most artistically rich and creative African kingdoms Artists from the kingdom of Kongoa vast swath of Central Africa that today encompasses the Republic of Congo, the Democratic Republic of Congo, and Angolawere responsible for outstanding creative achievements. With the influx of Portuguese, Dutch, and Italian merchants, missionaries, and explorers, Kongo developed a unique artistic tradition that blended European iconography with powerful indigenous art forms. An initially positive engagement with Europe in the 15th century turned turbulent in the wake of later displacement, civil war, and the slave tradeand many of the artworks created in Kongo reflect the changing times. This comprehensive study is the first major catalogue to explore Kongos history, art forms, and cultural identity before, during, and after contact with Europe. Objects range from 15th-century mother-and-child figures, which reflect a time when Europeans and their Christian motifs were viewed favorably, to fearsome mangaaka, power figures that conveyed strength in the midst of the kingdoms dissolution. Lavishly illustrated with new photography and multiple views of three-dimensional works, this book presents the fascinatingly complex artistic legacy of one of Africas most storied kingdoms. Published by The Metropolitan Museum of Art/Distributed by Yale University Press Exhibition Schedule: The Metropolitan Museum of Art (09/17/1501/03/16)