|
Discovering
African Art by: Jennifer Cedor |
||||
|
The mask that I chose represents the mother of King Esigie of Benin. This mask was inspired by one that dates back to the 16th century and was made to honor King Esigie’s mother Queen Idia because she aided her son in becoming King. She helped him defeat rival kingdoms in battles and expand the boundaries of the Benin Kingdom. In recognition of his mother's devotion, King Esigie designated her mother as the first Queen Mother in the history of Benin.During ceremonies, the mask is worn around the king's waist. The African world is people-oriented and exists wherever the people are. Africans have a sense of togetherness that derives from their culture. Art is an important part of that culture. It helps people define their own identity, distinguishing themselves from the people surrounding them. African works communicate an African identity. Women identify with the Queen Idia mask because it is a symbol of women's rising up in their society. It inspires those not born into the nobility to work twice as hard to reach a higher status. Queen Idia’s mask represents Benin culture from many angles. The mask evokes the society, the culture, art, history and politics. This journey of discovery associated with Queen Idia's representation not only gives one an appreciation for art, but also for those--historic characters and contemporary ones, artists and performers--that are behind the mask.
|
|
|||
|
|||||
|
|||||
