This catalogue features 75 significant works of art from the Lawrence Gussman collection, taken from more than 30 different African cultures. Although many works represent well-known genres of African art, the book equally represents works less familiar to Western audiences.

The variety of objects included in this catalogue contribute to our knowledge of central African artistry, introducing little-known traditions and overlooked art forms. The book features 75 significant works of art from the Lawrence Gussman collection, taken from more than 30 different African cultures spanning the present-day nations of Cameroon, Gabon, Equatorial Guinea, the Republic of the Congo, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Angola and Zambia. While there are many works representing well-known genres of African art, such as Fang reliquary figures and Luba leadership arts, this book equally represents works less familiar to Western audiences, such as a rare Holo stringed instrument and an unusual Kota metal-covered mask. Viewed together, the works present a broad portrait of central African art that emphasizes the dynamic nature of cultural exchange in the region while recognizing the singular expression of African artists.