With fifty pieces from fifteen tribes, we present the maternity theme in depth, with a diversity in size, symbolism, intimacy and style. Most depict the ideals of beauty, fertility, character and action and many signify much more, whether the primordial mother or a legendary founding ancestor. Commonly used as shrine figures, they were often objects of petitions or prayers for fertility and successful births. The prevelance of the maternity theme testifies to the importance of women and children to the continuity of each people.

Among the traditional maternity pieces from the Yoruba of Nigeria are two large Epa masks, some Shango wands and diviner bowls. The Bamana are represented both by human figures and the mythological Chi-wara, depicting an antelope mother and child. The most naturalistic are those of the Pende (on poster) and the refined, elegant Baule figures. The serenely powerful Bakongo sculptures and the stylized Ashanti seated figures add a balance to the more expressive masks and figures of the Yaka. Less common maternity figures from the Dogon, Senufo, Dan, Bamileke, Ogoni, Benalua, Chokwe and Eket complete the exhibit.

PENDE, MATERNITY FIGURE, Zaire © John Urban