TRIBAL ART 3

WHAT TO COLLECT .

 TRIBAL ART

Authentic objects of all sorts are highly collectable. Among the favorites are carved figures, which have ceremonial and magical functions in almost every tribal society. Masks, whether from Africa or Oceania, can be even more impressive, with wild hair and features carved to represent spirits or an­cestors. Their purpose is also ceremonial, usually as part of a ritual dance.

Everyday objects provide direct contact with primitive ways of life, some now van­ished for ever. Many artifacts such as bowls,containers, spoons and combs also have artistic value in their decorative carving and ornamentation.

 TRIBAL ART

Jewellery is less common, hut beautiful pieces - often with mythological significance - were made by craftsmen as far apart as New Zealand, Brazil and Ghana. Hunting and fishing tools, weights and other utensils for making a living and for trade are equally collectable.

Woven textiles in traditional designs and colours are a good buy for collectors with a limited budget. Originally, most cloth was made from tree bark or raffia, but cotton is now more usual. Older African designs were often in earth colours, and South Sea islands fabrics rather brighter.

Modern cloth from Ghana and other countries of West Africa comes in a huge variety of colours and designs, and although some types are quite valuable in Europe, African prices are still low.

Traditional weapons of all sorts, whether in wood, iron, stone or bone, are another good area for collectors. Their importance in war­fare, hunting and ceremonies meant that they were often among the most beautifully crafted and decorated of all traditional implements.

Musical instruments are different in every culture, and up to now most collectors of tribal instruments have been specialists who bought items from makers or players. Today, many examples exist in the West and most are inexpensive, often costing under £100.

TIPS FOR BEGINNERS

 TRIBAL ART

Because it comes from foreign cultures, tribal art is not always easy to appreciate. Experts advise new collectors to specialise in objects from just one or two regions - preferably places with which they are connected or to which they feel particularly drawn. An inter­esting way to start is to collect by theme, for example, maternity figures or sacred objects from a particular tribe, or jewellery, weapons or textiles from a certain region.

As well as visiting exhibitions, read as much as you can about a people before you start collecting their work: understanding the context is vital for building a good collection.
Part three of three