African Art Early Modern Period

c. 1500–1900

This period covers traditional African art produced during increasing contact with Europe and the Islamic world. Artists continued long-standing sculptural, textile, and decorative traditions while adapting materials, formats, and themes. Works often served ritual, political, and social functions within communities. Despite outside influence, local symbolism and cultural meaning remained central.

Seated Male Figure

Kongo Peoples Kakongo Group

c. 19th–20th century (c. 1900–1960)

Wooden figure of a seated man, possibly used in rituals or as a symbol of leadership.

Prestige Stool: Female Caryatid

Luba Or Hemba Peoples

c. 19th–20th century (c. 1900–1950)

A wooden stool supported by a carved female figure, symbolizing authority and lineage in Luba society.

Adwinasa man's cloth

Artist Unknown

c. 1890

A richly patterned Ghanaian textile, woven in Kente style and often worn by chiefs or for ceremonies.

Lidded Saltcellar

Sapi Portuguese

c. 1490–1530

An ivory container intricately carved in West Africa for the Portuguese market, blending African and European motifs.