African, but with ‘universal themes’

Senambele (Senufo) artist, N Ivory Coast, SW Burkina Faso, SW Mali, NW Ghana. Composite animal helmet mask (kponiougo), late 19th-early 20th Century, wood, pigment, in the ongoing show “Festival: A Celebration of African Art,’’ at the Fitchburg (Mass.) Art Museum.

The museum explains:

“Drawing upon universal themes of life, death, power, love, and celebration, the show presents highlights of the museum’s African art collection organized around the concepts of Masquerades, Ceremonial Life, Ritual Life and Domestic Life.’’

Central Fitchburg, including Nashua River, rail tracks and commuter rail station.

— Photo by Nick Allen