In the late 1960s, Jacques Kerchache, an artistic advisor and curator of exhibitions, recognised the aesthetic potency and stunning originality of voodoo statuary and its forms. During his first trips to the birthplace of voodoo, now known as the Republic of Benin, he began to bring together what has become the most significant existing collection of African voodoo statuary. Vodun: African Voodoo reveals an exceptional group of sculptures from Benin and Togo. Bringing together nearly 100 bocio figures from the collection of Anne and Jacques Kerchache, this unique volume is devoted entirely to this sculptural tradition of voodoo. Many of these objects were used for aggressive and protective ends, imbuing them with a sense of eeriness that adds to the strangeness of their physical appearance. This volume features over 150 photographs taken by Yuji Ono as part of a special commission, showing the mystery and beauty of these sculptures. The unusual career of Jacques Kerchache and his passion for African statuary are presented through a variety of personal documents and photographs. A selection of his writings on African art and Vodun in Benin, some of which have never been published before, is also included. Finally, contributions by specialists in the field such as Marc Augé, Suzanne Preston Blier, Gabin Djimassé, and by the artist Patrick Vilaire shed new light on African Vodun, making the catalog a true resource book on the subject. The book contains 100 previously unpublished voodoo bocio figures.
