Whether it is the tropical Savannah’s of sub-Saharan Africa or the mythical jungles of Papua New Guinea, indigenous peoples have created some of the most powerful and beautiful works of art ever seen. These works have had a profound influence on Western art when first seen by the avant-garde and incorporated into their own master-works.

These objects, whether dance masks, village fetishes, miniature pendants or musical instruments, were never created as art for art’s sake. They were ritual or utilitarian objects for day-to-day life.

The magic of owning these objects became infectious and turned into larger collections focusing on the objects’ beauty and power as “Art”.

In this lecture, Craig DeLora will focus on the how to determine authenticity and value of tribal works, and the near “forensic” approach needed to deduce what makes something authentic.

Tourist objects will be mentioned, and we will see the difference between a literal tourist object and a pre-meditated fake. The tribal art market is a virtual minefield, and this lecture will help navigate the dangerous territory.