ABSTRACT

A Host of Devils provides an in-depth account of the background, origin and development of the spirit figure sculptures which emerged during colonial times among the Makonde people of Mozambique.
The creation of such works is shown to connect with a regional system of knowledge and practice, within which spirits function as a format for expression. The book describes the ways in which the sculpture emerged, as well as the author's experience of learning how to carve.

chapter |8 pages

Introduction

chapter 1|26 pages

The Makonde

chapter 2|24 pages

Cosmology and the body

chapter 3|32 pages

Carvers and patrons

chapter 4|26 pages

Apprenticeship

chapter 5|34 pages

Spirits, affliction and expression

chapter 6|29 pages

The role and position of the sculptor

chapter 8|14 pages

Conclusion The creative project