Hidden Legacies: African Presence in European Antiques - An Overlooked History
A Note from the Worthwhile Magazine Editors:
We are deeply honored to have the opportunity to share brand new research by Tanzy Ward, author of the recently published book Hidden Legacies: African Presence in European Antiques. You can purchase a copy by clicking the button below. We are grateful for her contribution of the following article, introducing our readers to the important scholarship included in her book.
Cover image of the book “Hidden Legacies: African Presence in European Antiques,” image courtesy of Tanzy Ward
When European antiques are discussed, the substantial number of African depictions are often overlooked. Yet, history has proven that there is an impressive collection of antiques featuring fascinating images of African descendants. Hidden Legacies: African Presence in European Antiques was written to highlight and analyze the diverse collection of European collectibles that depicts African descendants. When we think of the ‘ideal image’ that relates to esteemed periods such as the Renaissance and Victorian Eras, representation is often biased. Yet, the African image has been prevalent in many European antiques. Compelling paintings, cameos, sculptures, and photography are emphasized and studied in each chapter of Hidden Legacies.
The Renaissance Era led to advanced philosophical studies, which includes the interest in anthropology. Hidden Legacies examines the effects of multicultural studies and the European artists who chose to portray African people in a more realistic way. Accurate representation is especially important when we analyze history, and antiques are primary sources for studying the past. Hidden Legacies proves that the African image in European antiques included Moorish aristocrats, elegantly dressed Black Victorians, and sculptures that showcase African cultures in a non-stereotypical way. It was important to include various examples within the antique industry and reflect on their connection with European history. Growing up, I did not see images of African-European aristocrats in Renaissance Europe or poised Black Victorians when African studies were discussed. However, as an antique dealer, I have been greatly exposed to the African presence in European collectibles. Hidden Legacies was not only inspired by the lack of acclaim these superb collectibles receive, but to also emphasize their intricate connection with history.
Portrait of an African king in agate; cameo, second half of the 16th century (enamelled gold mount, 17th century). Date is between 1550 and 1600, mount, 17th century. Created from agate, gold, and enamel. Cabinet des Medailles. © Marie-Lan Nguyen / Wikimedia Commons / CC-BY 2.5- Creative Commons Attribution 2.5 Generic License
“Growing up, I did not see images of African-European aristocrats in Renaissance Europe or poised Black Victorians when African studies were discussed. However, as an antique dealer, I have been greatly exposed to the African presence in European collectibles. Hidden Legacies was not only inspired by the lack of acclaim these superb collectibles receive, but to also emphasize their intricate connection with history.”
Hidden Legacies aims to not only highlight the African presence in Europe’s antiques, but to examine their significant stories. Although many African descendants in European antiques are unidentified, there are famous names that have been portrayed in various antiques. Duke of Florence Alessandro de’ Medici (1510-1537), and leader of the Roman Theban Legion Saint Maurice (c.3rd century-c.287) are two people of African descendant with great historical significance, but even their accurate images have been altered at times. It is not uncommon to see ‘white-washed’ versions of African figures in European paintings and sculptures. This unfortunate practice has allowed for many distorted images and false representations. Hidden Legacies reflects on the historically accurate depictions of African descendants in European antiques, which includes a diverse collection. It is uplifting and intriguing to see humanized sentimental images of African descendants in artworks. Inaccurate depictions and stereotypes of people in the African diaspora have plagued many paintings and figurines. Presently, the African face in antique European art is underrepresented and not highlighted enough. The lack of acclaim and acknowledgment extends to various academic lesson plans and textbooks. Thankfully, social media has increased the visibility of African people in European antiques. Profound images and stories are being shared with people all around the world, which inspires a refreshed interest and growing curiosity.
“Presently, the African face in antique European art is underrepresented and not highlighted enough. The lack of acclaim and acknowledgment extends to various academic lesson plans and textbooks. Thankfully, social media has increased the visibility of African people in European antiques. Profound images and stories are being shared with people all around the world, which inspires a refreshed interest and growing curiosity. ”
Woman of the Colonies (Capresse des Colonies), 1861, Paris, Musee d’Orsay. Photographer: Janmad 07/28/09- Creative Commons Attribution 3.0 Unported License/ GNU Free Documentation License
One of my favorite European artists examined in Hidden Legacies is French sculptor Charles Cordier (1827-1901). Cordier was inspired by anthropological studies and chose to create artworks that represented real-life ethnographic subjects. His remarkable polychrome marble busts depicted African people in a realistic and compelling way, celebrating cultural heritage during a time of growing racial-based stereotypes. Cordier traveled to places in Africa, such as Algeria, and used African models for his sculptures. His artworks are great Victorian Era masterpieces and fine examples of European antiques. Hidden Legacies studies Cordier’s compelling artworks and many other similar profound sculptures of African descendants. While researching and gathering information for the book, I realized that European antiques depicting African subjects are remarkably diverse.
The images I came across were not just depictions of African servants and slaves. Hidden Legacies analyzes the many African noblemen and aristocratic figures in European collectibles. Blackamoor cameos of African royal-like subjects, Renaissance Era Moorish diplomats, and images of elegant Black Victorians are discussed in the book because diverse representation matters. As an adolescent, I mainly saw images representing pain and struggle while studying Black History. Although these stories are important to remember, there are often missing pieces. The images and historical background stories in Hidden Legacies are uplifting and important to preserve.
The astounding African presence in European antiques are intriguing images that capture the interest of people from different nationalities. Antiques are fascinating objects and primary sources of our humanity’s past. Hidden Legacies aims to emphasize an overlooked collection of antiques that are historically significant and presently relevant. I hope readers will enjoy reading the material and viewing the compelling images, a diverse collection that showcases a fascinating part of a hidden history.
Tanzy Ward is the author of Hidden Legacies: African Presence in European Antiques, an antique dealer, and an appraiser. She is also the founder of Zanathia Jewelry, which specializes in preserving rare antique and vintage accessories from eras gone by.
Ward is a PACC certified appraiser and graduate of Asheford Institute of Antiques. In addition, she is a proud member of the Asheford Associate Membership Program & The American Society of Jewelry Historians. Zanathia Jewelry emphasizes preserving pieces of history and the cherished memories that are connected with it. Ward’s way of preserving history includes hand sourcing, researching, and providing unique jewelry that past generations wore with gentle love.
Hidden Legacies can be purchased in paperback or ebook online by clicking here.
Tanzy Ward can be found online at her business Zanathia Jewelry https://zanathiajewelry.com/ and on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/tanzyward_antiques/
© Tanzy Ward 2020