The Jean Pigozzi African Art Collection

Initiates, Congo Basin : The masks of Romuald Hazoumé, Musée Dapper, Paris

from 09/10/2013 to 06/07/2014

In Africa, initiations are seen as a necessary condition for obtaining a special position. They mark the transition from childhood to adulthood but they often accompany birth, death and other changes of status. The works presented in Initiates Congo Basin were made for use in these initiation rituals.

Masks are key agents in most initiations: they protect, teach, inflict punishment, frighten, give up their secrets and participate actively in the quest for identity.

The masks of CAAC artist Romuald Hazoumé will be featured in the exhibition taking place at the Musée Dapper in Paris.
Link to the exhibition website