The Kongo Culture (The Seated Man)

This author of the Kongo has caught a great deal of expression  in the figures features.  There is clear glass over the eyes gives them depth and lifelike characteristics while the mouth was a reflection of sadness. His posture is called funda nkata.  It reflects the control necessary for responsibility and leadership.  In the Kongo culture its believed the resting head and hand is an indication of mourning for those left behind.  Grave sites in the Kongo represented the threshold  between the worlds of the living and the dead.  This seated figure would have been in shines that kept wooden sculptures and personal items belonging to the deceased.     

The Milk Maid

This work of art was called The Milk Maid also known as the kitchen maid. This woman appears to be an humbled low ranking indoor servant of all works. The painting is an oil on canvas done by Johannes Vermeer in 1658. At this time artist were not allow to illustrate sex but Vermeer knew how to censor the art work by giving hints without being graphic. There is an foot warmer in the painting as well.