Repairing, re-stitching, reinforcing, sealing… Wounded Artefacts tackles the unexplored theme of local repair work by native peoples. This publication offers a new approach to African objects and presents 120 ‘wounded artefacts’ selected from the 500 repaired artefacts in the musée du quai Branly - Jacques Chirac. The catalogue offers many different points of view because each culture attributes a different form and meaning to the act of repairing ritual or common artefacts.
It also examines the poetic nature of this repair work. Through this almost mystical extension of life and power that the hand of man confers upon the artefact, the latter seems to rise above its own ephemeral nature. Furthermore, the repair work is a sign of authenticity, to such an extent that that it can even be falsified.
The first part casts light on the meaning of the term "réparation", in French and in a number of African languages. Next, the differences between repair work and restoration are explored. This part ends with an ethnological reflection that places the act of repairing within the complex life of the artefact.
The second part explores the meaning of repairing according to the three main religions that are present in the continent: animism, Islam and Christianity.
The third part addresses the question of repairing in a more analytical manner, according to three different cultures: Maghreb, Dogon, and Gabon.
Finally, the last contribution shows the extent to which the concepts of separation and repairing are important in contemporary Western art.

Description

96 pages • 20 x 26 cm • 25 €
Co-published by musée du quai Branly - Jacques Chirac / 5 Continents 2007
ISBN: 9782915133486