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November 17, 2006

Sacred African tribal objects on display

African tribal Mask

Sacramento State’s University Library Gallery’s newest exhibit presents authentic African tribal masks and figurines that, in their time, were appreciated for their perceived powers—and today can be appreciated for their artistic value.

The exhibition of objects, drawn from several African cultures around the continent, is from the collection of Paul LeBaron Thiebaud and will be displayed beginning Friday, Dec. 1 through Saturday, March 17. The opening reception will be held in the gallery from 5 to 8 p.m. on Dec. 1.

The exhibit features tribal masks and figures that were useful to the tribes in a time without science, technology or modern medicine. The use of the masks and figurines were considered essential by the various tribes to ensure that crops would flourish, women would conceive, hardship would be evaded and the sick would be cured. The artifacts were utilized in dance masquerades, for ancestor worship, in initiation rituals and for insight.

University Library Gallery hours are from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Tuesday through Saturday. For more information, contact the gallery at (916) 278-4189. For media information, contact the Public Affairs office at (916) 278-6156.

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