Africa Adorned

More about the book

Across Africa, visitors encounter objects of remarkable beauty and craftsmanship, often worn by individuals whose bodies are adorned with paint, decorative scars, or elaborate hairstyles. These items, crafted from gold, silver, and inlaid with semi-precious stones, serve not only as adornments but also convey values, beliefs, and social status. They play significant roles in rituals, ceremonies, and protection against evil or disease, while also honoring ancestors and deities. Angela Fisher, captivated by their beauty, has dedicated over seven years to studying African adornment, traveling from the Sahara to Cape Horn. She has immersed herself in diverse cultures, documenting the significance of jewelry and body decoration in daily life. For instance, among the Zulu, young girls create beaded tabs for their partners, with colors conveying different meanings of love and rejection. In the Ivory Coast, a Lobi woman wears a lip plug to ward off evil spirits, while desert Berbers view silver as a sacred metal blessed by the Prophet. Fisher's research includes visits to museums and private collections, revealing how traditional cultural forms are preserved amid evolving materials and imagery. Her work offers a unique perspective on African life and its visual expressions, complemented by over 400 exquisite full-color photographs. This study serves as a valuable resource for collectors and a visual delight for armchair travelers.