Beauty Beyond the Eye of the Beholder – Punu Mukudj Masks
The distinct white mukudj masks from the Punu people of Gabon represent an ideal feminine beauty of both physical and spiritual perfection. Every element of the mask holds…
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Welcome to Burkina FassSSsso – Snake Form Currency
Among the Lobi and Gan people of Burkina Faso, snakes have long been venerated as protective entities and representations of divine powers. To honor the sacred animals, much…
Nature’s Time Capsule – Chucu Tablets
Chucu tablets, ritually broken and painted, were discovered deep in the mountainside caves of Arequipa, Peru. Hardly anything is known about these artifacts except that the dots most…
The Leading Lady – Dan Ceremonial Ladle
Among the Dan people of Liberia, West Africa, a large ceremonial ladle called wunkirmian is an item of great honor and pride for women. She who holds the…
Kagami Reflections – Japanese Antique Hand Mirrors
Contrary to many western cultures that have historically associated mirrors with ghosts and bad luck, Japan considers them a symbol of light, truth and wisdom. In Shinto mythology…
The Great Leap – Chinese Cultural Revolution Memorabilia
Many would argue that China’s Cultural Revolution was nothing short of destructive, especially in terms of traditional artworks. However, a different sort of art arose in the forms…
Oh, My Aching Head! – History of Headrests
Pillows weren’t always soft and fluffy throughout history but they have always been considered an object of importance. From keeping one’s head safe from bugs to maintaining elaborate…
A Chair to Hang Your Hat On – Chinese Yoke Back Chairs
By the 12th century China had incorporated a seating tradition in all social classes. The yoke-back chair was perhaps the most well-known chair during the Ming and Qing…
Can an Inanimate Object Have a Soul? – Tibetan Gao Prayer Boxes
Gao prayer boxes from Tibet are essentially protective amulets. Most often they feature Buddhist engravings such as the Wheel of Time, or in some larger boxes, small statues…
The Language of Beads – African Decorative Beads
The history of beads used as adornments goes back to the evolution of modern man. Especially in Africa beads and cowry shells were symbols of power and wealth.…