The "Mukyeem Mask" (wool cloth, cotton cloth, raffia fiber, skin, beads and cowry shells) is a stunning piece. The superstructure of the mask represents the trunk of an elephant, which is a royal emblem. The two beaded strips at each side represent the animal's tusks. The eyes represent those of a chameleon. The white fur, attached below the chin of the mask, signifies wisdom gained from experience. The cowry shells signify wealth. According to Brown, Kuba designs are varied and complex, each pattern having a name and symbolic meaning.

The Egyptian pieces in the exhibit are sumptuous, but they are so visually different from the work of the sub-Saharan artists that it almost seems to be part of another show.

"Africa: Arts of a Continent" is not a physically large exhibit, but it is a true gem, attesting to all who see it that the African artists who created these items of mystic and spiritual significance were truly visionary craftsmen.

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If you go

What: "Africa: Arts of a Continent"

Where: Utah Museum of Fine Arts, University of Utah

Museum hours: Tuesday-Friday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Wednesday, 10 a.m.-8 p.m.; Saturday and Sunday, 11 a.m.-5 p.m.

How much: Adults, $4; seniors, and youth ages 6-18; $2, children 5 and under, free

Phone: 581-7332 (group rates available)

Web: www.umfa.utah.edu

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E-mail: gag@desnews.com