Sunday, 7 March 2010

The Kingdom of Ife, British Museum

Saw this exhibition of West African artifacts from between the 14th and 16th centuries yesterday. Wonderful. The brass, bronze and terracotta heads were exquisite; skilfully executed especially bearing in mind the awkward nature of the materials used and the complexity of the processes involved. The vertical striations on the faces were a striking and recurring theme, and the beautifully-proportioned features really made them come alive - they truly were windows onto a long-lost culture. Lots of very informative background information and well-lit exhibits made for an unforgettable experience. Only £8 to see the show and well worth it. Go along - you won't be disappointed.

Saw lots of other fab stuff in the museum - an exhibition of Native American warrior culture was particularly compelling. Haven't been in the BM for yonks -the airy and light-filled main space is glorious.

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