The Frum Collection of African Art
The AGO will create a compelling visitor experience through the addition of several remarkable art collections of international distinction. One such addition, the Frum Collection of African Art, celebrates great sculptural traditions through iconic, masterful examples from carvers in Nigeria, Mali and other countries in West Africa. Together, these works represent one of the most significant donations of African art to a North American museum. In a collection already marked by iconic names – from Bernini to Rodin to Henry Moore – sculpture from parallel traditions will allow us to raise important questions about the role of art in a variety of world cultures.
Unknown, Jenne, Mali, Head, 12th-14th century, terracotta, 10.8 cm. The Art Gallery of Ontario, Toronto. Gift from the Frum Collection, 1989, © 2007 Art Gallery of Ontario.
Unknown, Kingdom of Bangangte, Cameroon, Commemorative Statue of a Queen with Child. 19th century, wood, 123.8 cm. AGO, gift from the Frum collection, 1999, © 2007 Art Gallery of Ontario.
Unknown, Kingdom of Batufam, Bangwa peoples, Cameroon, Statue of Queen Nana with Child, c. 1914, wood with ochre pigment, 103.0 x 31.0 x 29.0 cm. The Art Gallery of Ontario, Toronto. Gift of Dr. Murray Frum, 2004, © 2007 Art Gallery of Ontario.