Aptly if somewhat too broadly titled, this book focuses on specific, special-event rituals within independent communtities in several (mostly francophone) African countries. Black-and-white photography, dating from the 1940s and 1950s and representing French photographer Huet's lengthy career, are interlaced with more modern photographs in brilliant color. The archival images, while fascinating documents, can easily be mistaken for contemporary scenes in this presentation as they are not individually dated and their history is recounted only in the preface. More problematic, the photography depicts the drama of an outsider's dramatic perspective, particularly emphasizing these foreign scenes through a series of staged portraits, reiterating stereotypical images of Africans wearing masks and grass skirts. The book makes no attempt to incorporate the holiday rituals with daily life in modern Africa. In spite of these flaws, the National Geographic-style photography is ideal for attracting the attention of lay readers to African rituals. Recommended for public libraries and comprehensive academic ethnography collections.?Jennie Raab, New York
Copyright 1996 Reed Business Information, Inc.
Product Description
From 1945 to 1985, French photographer Michel Huet traveled through Africa recording the beautiful, age-old dance rituals and ceremonies of 50 African tribes. Now, in this visually stunning work, Huet's unique images are blended with ethnographer Claude Savary's sensitive text to produce a stunning testimonial to these rapidly vanishing cultural traditions.
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