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Periodical article | Leiden University catalogue | WorldCat |
Title: | African Art and Persuasion: The Rhetoric of the 'Bera' among the Dagaaba of Ghana |
Author: | Naaeke, Anthony |
Year: | 2006 |
Periodical: | Journal of Dagaare Studies |
Volume: | 6 |
Pages: | 21-28 |
Language: | English |
Geographic term: | Ghana |
Subjects: | ritual objects Dagari Peoples of Africa (Ethnic Groups) Architecture and the Arts |
Abstract: | The author contends that the 'bera' among the Dagaaba of Ghana is a non-discursive visual object acting as an active persuasive interlocutor within the subjective consciousness or conscience of a would-be thief standing face-to-face with an object (such as a mango fruit) that is desired for its capacity to satisfy hunger or pleasure. By describing the 'bera' as African art and a persuasive agent meant to protect property from would-be thieves, the author explains the relevance of the 'bera' to the Dagaaba and the rhetorical and pastoral implications of a village catechist hanging a 'bera' on his mango tree. In doing so, the author demonstrates that the 'bera' is art, situated rhetoric, and a symbol of cultural moral values among the Dagaaba. Bibliogr., notes, ref., sum. [Journal abstract] |