African Aesthetics: The Carlo Monzino Collection introduces the reader to African sculptures as fine examples by individual master artists, as well as a reflection of moral values. The selection of works in the book is a reassertion of the collector’s choice of pieces acquired solely on the basis of their provocative aesthetic merit. The collaboration between Carlo Monzino, whose African art collection was one of the finest in Europe, and photographer Mario Carrieri, whose photographs capture the many innovative forms and styles of the artworks, serves to emphasize the genius of African art as art. Modern art has trained the modern eye to appreciate the struggle against realism and the acceptance of innovation. Westerners seeking to understand African aesthetics will learn that African art is not so easily grasped on the surface. For example, Africans evaluating sculptures generally perceive beauty, newness, and roughness in craftsmanship in a totally different way from Westerners. This book, unlike many art historical and anthropological books of African art, is a serious look at how Africans see their art, and a guide to how Westerners are now beginning to see it.

Exhibition catalogue with introduction, African Aesthetics and catalogue notes by Susan Vogel. Published and distributed by The Center for African Art, New York, 1986. 228 pp. Paper: ISBN 0-9614587-2-0. LCCN: 86-4151.Aesthetics of African Art. Exhibition booklet by Susan Vogel. Published and distributed by The Center for African Art, 1986.