ABSTRACT

This is a pioneering introduction to a subject that is still at an early srage of academic development. It aims to provide the reader with a systematic method for the historical understanding of African art. Professor Vansina considers the medium, technique, style and meaning of art objects and examines the creative process through which they come into being. Numerous photographs and drawings illustrate his arguments, and help to explain the changes that have taken place.

chapter 1|20 pages

Introduction

chapter 2|20 pages

Identification

chapter 3|15 pages

Society, the Mother of Art

chapter 4|22 pages

Media and Techniques

chapter 5|23 pages

Style

chapter 6|20 pages

The Interpretation of Icons

chapter 7|15 pages

Culture and Art

chapter 8|23 pages

The Creative Process

chapter 9|15 pages

The Creative Process: Foreign Inputs

chapter 10|22 pages

Wider Perspectives

chapter 11|18 pages

Art in History