DANISH DESIGN × AFRICA

DID YOU KNOW:

The circle girl ( circle pigen ) is an iconic logo that was developed in 1955 by the illustrator and artist Aage Sikker Hansen for the promotion of a Danish coffee brand . The artist was probably inspired by the Mangbetu women.

Image 1: the circle girl by Artist Aage Sikker HansenImage 1: the circle girl by Artist Aage Sikker Hansen

The Mangbetu people are an ethnic group from the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Their distinct custom of skull elongation is called Lipombo and was a symbol among the ruling classes of majesty, beauty, power and a higher intelligence.

Portrait of Nemali, Okondo's 3rd wife, Mangbetu peoples, Democratic Republic of the Congo via Pinterest

Global music icon Beyoncé in a still from her award-winning music video for the song "Brown Skin Girl".

Mangbetu girl Source: african-paris.com | Viagalerieartprimit

The Mangbetu are less known for their highly developed art and music in both ceramics and musical instruments. These art pieces are today highly valued antiques.

Mangbetu pottery @galerie_heritage

Mangbetu pottery @galerie_heritage

an African arched harp or a kundi.

Though the circle girl is a symbol of bygone times, she still fascinates and stands as a strong image of beautiful African women.✨