Anthropomorphic power object,

20th century, before 1970

This sculpture takes the form of a human-shaped figure covered in a dark cloth outfit similar to those worn by masqueraders. Dark matter covering the surface hints at the plants, feathers, earth, and other materials that went into its making. For over a century, observers in present-day Burkina Faso, Côte d’Ivoire, and Mali have noted that makers of accumulative objects study flora, fauna, and minerals as well as intangible energies. The makers use their expert knowledge to help individuals and communities address challenges in their lives. They select and incorporate disparate materials to respond to specific circumstances. Through their manipulation of matter and energy, the specialists concentrate potent forces in the objects to create tools that aid them in their work. The objects often demonstrate their sophisticated knowledge without disclosing everything that the experts know. Exact details about the materials and methods of the objects’ making remain deliberately ambiguous.

Susan Elizabeth Gagliardi, Professor, Art History, Emory University