Comb c. 20th century
akan
round frame
circular oval feature
egg art
pottery
3d printed part
round design
unrealistic statue
3d shape
stoneware
wood
round circular shape
This Akan comb from the 20th century, currently held by the Minneapolis Institute of Art, is a beautiful example of African art. The comb's wooden handle is carved into the shape of a stylized human figure with a geometric face. The comb is a functional piece of art, demonstrating the skill of the Akan people in combining beauty with practical use. This piece also highlights how everyday items in non-Western cultures can be imbued with artistic and symbolic significance.
Comments
Hairstyles have long reflected personal aesthetics in African and African-American cultures. And when adorned with extensions, beads, pins, or combs, they can indicate a person’s status, ethnic origin, gender, profession, or even what phase of life they’re in. These three combs, from West and Central Africa, show how African artists turn even everyday objects into accomplished carvings.
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