PRESENTING nearly 200 Central African artifacts and enhanced by new media, the “Central African Art: Invocation of an Unseen World” exhibition in Hong Kong offers a fascinating journey into the often-forgotten world of Central African arts.

The objects mainly date from the 19th to early 20th centuries. Embedded within the social fabric and ritual life of these societies, the exhibits are more than beautiful objects; they also serve clear, meaningful functions. The greatest artistic attention is devoted to sculptures, masks, and weapons, highlighting their dominant roles in society.

Ritual sculptures acted as bridges between the living and the spiritual worlds. The exhibited sculptures display a wide array of forms and styles: Some are adorned with embedded metal pieces; others feature ornate and highly stylized decorations; while some are strikingly simple, employing abstract geometric patterns.

Masks served as intermediaries between the invisible realm — of spirits and abstract ideals — and the world of the living. Central African masks are extremely diverse in style, reflecting the varied — and sometimes conflicting — worldviews of different political, cultural, and ethnic groups, while also showcasing the skill and aesthetic sensibilities of their anonymous creators.

Prestige weapons were the ultimate tools of social action, embodying sacred authority passed down from ancestors, enforcing political rule, and maintaining social cohesion. Beyond their physical function, these weapons were vital carriers of symbolic meaning, signifying authority and power, wealth and prestige, and political legitimacy. A distinctive feature of Central African arms is their individuality — craftsmen infused each piece with unique personality and craftsmanship, making every battle axe, throwing knife, sword, dagger, spear, or shield a singular work of art.

Dates: Through Sept. 28

Hours: 10 a.m.-7 p.m., closed Mondays

Tickets: Free

Venue: Indra and Harry Banga Gallery, 18/F, Lau Ming Wai Academic Building, City University of Hong Kong, Kowloon, Hong Kong (香港九龙香港城市大学刘鸣炜学术楼18楼般哥展览馆)

MTR: MTR Kowloon Tong Station, Exit C(SD News)