This catalogue is part of Dalton Somaré Gallery’s research on classical African sculpture and was presented on the occasion of BRAFA Art Fair 2023.
Texts: Dalton Somaré
Year: 2023
Format: 23 × 28.5 cm
Pages: 36, 12 colour images
Language: English
African art and classicism: a visual dialogue
The architectural silhouettes shaping the visual concept of the catalogue recall the façade of Ca’ Brütta, one of the most iconic buildings in Milan, designed in 1921 by Giovanni Muzio. Initially criticized for its bold reinterpretation of classical language, Ca’ Brütta later became a key reference of Italian Novecento architecture and modern aesthetics.
This transformation, from controversial object to aesthetic reference, finds a meaningful parallel in the reception of African art in Europe during the 20th century. Once considered “primitive”, African art has progressively been recognized as one of the most influential and innovative sources of modern visual culture.
Placing classical African sculpture within this architectural framework creates a dialogue between seemingly distant languages. The selected works reveal formal and conceptual affinities with European modern art. This approach highlights the fundamental contribution of African artists to the development of contemporary aesthetic sensibility, moving beyond reductive categories.
Classic & Anticlassic – African Art in an Italian Milieu is both a critical and visual tool that invites a reconsideration of the categories of classic and anticlassic, tradition and innovation. Through a rigorous selection of works and a strong visual identity, the publication is addressed to collectors, scholars and enthusiasts interested in African art and its dialogue with European culture. This catalogue was presented on the occasion of BRAFA Art Fair 2025.
IKONS of African Art
African Cuts
Origins: A Vision on African Art
A Hidden Heritage
