7 min read•january 28, 2023
Laurie Accede
Laurie Accede
Coursed granite blocks
Function:
This was a royal complex (the royal elite may have lived here) and trading center
Content:
This was a 32 feet tall fortress with sloped sides
Context:
The large size of the conical tower is a symbol of wealth and power. It also resembled a granary (a building that was used to store grain) to represent prosperity and a successful harvest
The name Zimbabwe means "houses of stones," and this structure is different from many other architectural buildings in Africa because it's made from stone.
Form:
Function:
This was a mosque where Muslims could come to pray and worship
Content:
Maintains the tradition of Islamic mosques, with a mihrab that indicates the direction of Mecca
Wooden beams called torons are found on the mosque walls and are used as ladders for when maintenance is done on the building
Minarets (used to call Muslim worshippers to pray) and other columns are topped with ostrich eggs as a symbol of purity and fertility
The mosque also has a hypostyle hall, which is an interior space with a roof supported by columns. This hypostyle hall provided space for the umma (Muslim community) to pray
Context:
One of the five pillars of Islam requires Muslims to pray 5 times a day facing Mecca
This structure is made from natural materials, the mosque requires maintenance it order to combat the weather and other events. The Town of Djenné holds an annual festival known as Crépissage de La Grand Mosque, where citizens come together to repair and re-plaster the Great Mosque.
Cast brass
Function:
The plaque was made to decorate the palace of the oba (the king) and showcase his power and wealth
Content:
Hierarchy of scale is used, where the most important figure, the king is the largest
The king is shown with his attendants
Context:
This place comes from the Edo peoples in Benin (present-day Nigeria)
The use of brass demonstrates the trading networks that were formed, especially with the Portuguese
Gold over wood
Function:
This was a sacred symbol of the Ashanti people in Ghana. It is said to contain the soul of the nation.
This object was used during special occasions, like "crowning ceremonies," where the king is raised over the stool
Content:
There are bells hanging from the side of the stool to warn the king of danger
Context:
Stools are culturally significant to the Ashanti nation (parts of own's souls are believed to reside in stool), and this stool was so sacred, it was never supposed to touch the ground. It rests on its own throne.
No one is allowed to touch the stool except for the king
Wood
Function:
These figures were meant to commemorate the king and their accomplishments
Content:
This is a non-idealized sculpture of the king who is wearing royal regalia and is sitting with his legs crossed on a stool
The large head demonstrates the king's intelligence
The calm-looking face shows the king's patience and he seems uninvolved. He is above "mortal" affairs
Context:
This figure was kept in a shrine
The shine in this wooden sculpture comes from the oils that were rubbed on it to protect it from insects
The motifs on the drum identifies this figure as King Mishe miShyaang maMbul
Wood and metal
Function:
This was used to hold spirits
Content:
This is a human figure who is standing and is an alert pose
Nails are pounded throughout the sculpture
Context:
The Nkisi (''spirit") contained in the figure can be called upon to assist in human affairs
The nails were inserted to call upon the spirit, especially for serious affairs
Wood, fiber, pigment, and metal
Function:
These masks were worn by men who depicted women in ritual dances
Content:
Closed eyes with enlarged sockets and a slender nose
Braided fibers are used for hair
Context:
The Chokwe peoples were a matrilineal society and these masks were used to honor female ancestors
The facial features represent an ideal woman in Chokwe society
The eyes suggest wisdom and modesty (she is so knowledgeable that she does not need sight)
The large forehead is also a symbol of intelligence
The white around the eyes is meant to demonstrate a connection to the spirtual world
Wood and pigment
Function:
These masks were worn at ritual dances to honor an individual
Content:
Facial features include: arched eyebrows, broad forehead, heavy-lidded and downcast eyes, slender and elongated nose, small mouth, elaborate coiffure (hairstyle), elongated facial structure
Context:
These masks are from the Baule peoples of Côte d'Ivoire (Ivory Coast)
This is an idealized version of the individual, and the facial features represent desired attributes in Baule society, including modesty, wisdom, and morality
Form;
Wood, cloth, and fiber
Function:
These masks were worn by the elders of Sande society during initiation ceremonies that brought young girls into Sande society and celebrated their adulthood
Content:
Facial features include: small eyes, small ears, small mouth, smooth and broad forehead, elaborate hairstyle, rings around the neck
Context:
The masks portray the ideal Mende woman.
Small eyes and ears represent a woman who avoids sharing secrets and gossip
The elaborate hair is a symbol of wealth
The large and high forehead demonstrates wisdom
The rings around the neck are symbolic of pregnancy
Wood
Function:
These figures were commissioned by men for their private homes as a symbol of of their achievements
Content:
Ikenga means "strong right arm" and the tool in the figures hand demonstrates the person's strong physical capabilities
The horns of a ram demonstrate power and strength
Context:
This figure honors masculine attributes
Form:
Wood, beads, and metal
Function:
This was used to help the user remember key elements of a story
Carved wood decorated with beads and shells with each bead representing a particular element in the story
Zoomorphic elements are carved into the sides of the board
Context:
These were used by the historians in Mbudye society, who have the special ability to read these boards
Each board was unique depending on the story
Wood, woven raffia, cloth, and beads
Function:
These masks were worn by members of high society (members of the Kuosi) during important ceremonies
Content:
The figure is a composite human-animal figure (anthropomorphic)
It has a human face with elephant features (long trunk and ears) that symbolize power and strength
Context:
Beads were valuable items of the Bamileke people. The beadwork and elephant features were signs of wealth and prestige
Wood
Function:
These figures were placed on reliquaries (containers that store relics) to act as guards from bad spirits
Content:
Hands folded in prayer to symbolize tranquility
Prominent belly button to symbolize eternal life and youthfulness
Elongated body
Context:
Similar to the Ndop portrait figure, this sculpture was also rubber with oil to add shine and protect from insects
This figure was meant to be portable since the Fang people were nomadic
Form:
Wood and pigment
Function:
This was most likely used for decoration of the king's palace. These posts also helped support a veranda (porch-like structure) in the palace
Content:
The use of hierarchy of scale were she is larger than the king, shows that she is an important supporter of the king (cross cultural comparison with King Menkaura and Queen in Unit 2 🧠)
There is a smaller figure, the King's Junior Wife and a Eshu, the Trickster god of the Yoruba peoples playing the flute
Context:
The carver of this piece was Olowe of Ise
Adobe
: Adobe refers to a type of building material made from a mixture of clay, sand, water, and organic materials like straw or dung. It is commonly used in arid regions and has been utilized for centuries in the construction of houses and other structures.Aka Elephant Mask
: An Aka Elephant Mask is a ceremonial mask worn by the Chokwe people of Central Africa during rituals and performances. It represents power, strength, fertility, and ancestral spirits associated with elephants.Ashanti people
: The Ashanti people are an ethnic group from Ghana, known for their rich cultural heritage and artistic traditions. They have a long history of creating intricate gold jewelry, colorful textiles, and unique sculptures.Baule peoples
: The Baule peoples are an ethnic group from West Africa, specifically Ivory Coast. They have a rich artistic tradition, particularly in the creation of wooden sculptures and masks.Bundu Mask
: The Bundu mask is an African mask worn by women during initiation ceremonies among the Mende people in Sierra Leone. It represents female wisdom, maturity, and serves as a guardian spirit.Chokwe peoples
: The Chokwe peoples are an ethnic group from Central Africa, known for their rich cultural heritage and artistic traditions. They reside primarily in Angola, Democratic Republic of Congo, and Zambia.Conical Tower and Circular Wall of Great Zimbabwe
: The Conical Tower and Circular Wall of Great Zimbabwe refers to the ancient stone structures found in the archaeological site of Great Zimbabwe in southern Africa. These structures include a tall conical tower and a surrounding circular wall made of granite blocks.Crépissage de La Grand Mosque
: The traditional technique used to plaster the exterior walls of La Grand Mosque in Mali using mud mixed with straw. This method helps protect against erosion caused by wind and rain.Edo peoples
: The Edo peoples were a group of indigenous people who lived in what is now modern-day Nigeria. They had a rich cultural heritage and were known for their artistic traditions, including bronze casting.Hypostyle hall
: A hypostyle hall is a large interior space with a roof supported by columns. It is often found in ancient Egyptian and Islamic architecture.Ikenga
: Ikenga is a Nigerian sculpture that represents the personal spiritual double of an individual. It embodies the concept of personal achievement and success.Lukasa (Memory Board)
: Lukasa is a handheld wooden board used by the Luba people in Central Africa to record and transmit their history, genealogy, and cultural knowledge. It contains beads, shells, and other materials arranged in patterns that serve as mnemonic devices.Mihrab
: A mihrab is a niche or decorative element in a mosque that indicates the direction of Mecca, which is the holiest city in Islam. It serves as a focal point for prayer.Minarets
: Minarets are tall, slender towers typically found near mosques. They serve as visual markers for mosques and are used for calling Muslims to prayer.Olowe of Ise
: Olowe of Ise was a renowned Yoruba artist from Nigeria who lived in the early 20th century. He is known for his exceptional skill in woodcarving and his contributions to Yoruba art.Portrait Mask (Mblo)
: A Portrait Mask, specifically Mblo masks from Ivory Coast's Baule people, is a type of mask that represents an individual's idealized beauty or social status. These masks are worn during ceremonies and performances.Power Figure (Nkisi n’kondi)
: Power Figure, also known as Nkisi n’kondi, refers to a type of African sculpture that is believed to possess spiritual power and is used for protection, healing, and justice. These figures are often covered in nails or other materials that symbolize the activation of their powers.Reliquary Figure (Byeri)
: A reliquary figure, also known as a Byeri, is a wooden sculpture created by the Fang people of Central Africa. It serves as a container for sacred relics and is used in ancestor worship ceremonies.Torons
: Torons are horizontal wooden beams or logs used in West African architecture, particularly in traditional Malian buildings such as mosques. They provide structural support while also adding decorative elements to the overall design.Veranda Post of Enthroned King and Senior Wife (Opo Ogoga)
: This term refers to a wooden post that was used as a decorative element in the palace of the king of the Yoruba people in Nigeria. It depicts the king and his senior wife seated on a throne, symbolizing their power and status.Wall Plaque, from Oba's Palace
: This term refers to a cast brass artwork that was displayed on the walls of the Oba's Palace in Benin City, Nigeria. These plaques were created to commemorate important events and individuals.7 min read•january 28, 2023
Laurie Accede
Laurie Accede
Coursed granite blocks
Function:
This was a royal complex (the royal elite may have lived here) and trading center
Content:
This was a 32 feet tall fortress with sloped sides
Context:
The large size of the conical tower is a symbol of wealth and power. It also resembled a granary (a building that was used to store grain) to represent prosperity and a successful harvest
The name Zimbabwe means "houses of stones," and this structure is different from many other architectural buildings in Africa because it's made from stone.
Form:
Function:
This was a mosque where Muslims could come to pray and worship
Content:
Maintains the tradition of Islamic mosques, with a mihrab that indicates the direction of Mecca
Wooden beams called torons are found on the mosque walls and are used as ladders for when maintenance is done on the building
Minarets (used to call Muslim worshippers to pray) and other columns are topped with ostrich eggs as a symbol of purity and fertility
The mosque also has a hypostyle hall, which is an interior space with a roof supported by columns. This hypostyle hall provided space for the umma (Muslim community) to pray
Context:
One of the five pillars of Islam requires Muslims to pray 5 times a day facing Mecca
This structure is made from natural materials, the mosque requires maintenance it order to combat the weather and other events. The Town of Djenné holds an annual festival known as Crépissage de La Grand Mosque, where citizens come together to repair and re-plaster the Great Mosque.
Cast brass
Function:
The plaque was made to decorate the palace of the oba (the king) and showcase his power and wealth
Content:
Hierarchy of scale is used, where the most important figure, the king is the largest
The king is shown with his attendants
Context:
This place comes from the Edo peoples in Benin (present-day Nigeria)
The use of brass demonstrates the trading networks that were formed, especially with the Portuguese
Gold over wood
Function:
This was a sacred symbol of the Ashanti people in Ghana. It is said to contain the soul of the nation.
This object was used during special occasions, like "crowning ceremonies," where the king is raised over the stool
Content:
There are bells hanging from the side of the stool to warn the king of danger
Context:
Stools are culturally significant to the Ashanti nation (parts of own's souls are believed to reside in stool), and this stool was so sacred, it was never supposed to touch the ground. It rests on its own throne.
No one is allowed to touch the stool except for the king
Wood
Function:
These figures were meant to commemorate the king and their accomplishments
Content:
This is a non-idealized sculpture of the king who is wearing royal regalia and is sitting with his legs crossed on a stool
The large head demonstrates the king's intelligence
The calm-looking face shows the king's patience and he seems uninvolved. He is above "mortal" affairs
Context:
This figure was kept in a shrine
The shine in this wooden sculpture comes from the oils that were rubbed on it to protect it from insects
The motifs on the drum identifies this figure as King Mishe miShyaang maMbul
Wood and metal
Function:
This was used to hold spirits
Content:
This is a human figure who is standing and is an alert pose
Nails are pounded throughout the sculpture
Context:
The Nkisi (''spirit") contained in the figure can be called upon to assist in human affairs
The nails were inserted to call upon the spirit, especially for serious affairs
Wood, fiber, pigment, and metal
Function:
These masks were worn by men who depicted women in ritual dances
Content:
Closed eyes with enlarged sockets and a slender nose
Braided fibers are used for hair
Context:
The Chokwe peoples were a matrilineal society and these masks were used to honor female ancestors
The facial features represent an ideal woman in Chokwe society
The eyes suggest wisdom and modesty (she is so knowledgeable that she does not need sight)
The large forehead is also a symbol of intelligence
The white around the eyes is meant to demonstrate a connection to the spirtual world
Wood and pigment
Function:
These masks were worn at ritual dances to honor an individual
Content:
Facial features include: arched eyebrows, broad forehead, heavy-lidded and downcast eyes, slender and elongated nose, small mouth, elaborate coiffure (hairstyle), elongated facial structure
Context:
These masks are from the Baule peoples of Côte d'Ivoire (Ivory Coast)
This is an idealized version of the individual, and the facial features represent desired attributes in Baule society, including modesty, wisdom, and morality
Form;
Wood, cloth, and fiber
Function:
These masks were worn by the elders of Sande society during initiation ceremonies that brought young girls into Sande society and celebrated their adulthood
Content:
Facial features include: small eyes, small ears, small mouth, smooth and broad forehead, elaborate hairstyle, rings around the neck
Context:
The masks portray the ideal Mende woman.
Small eyes and ears represent a woman who avoids sharing secrets and gossip
The elaborate hair is a symbol of wealth
The large and high forehead demonstrates wisdom
The rings around the neck are symbolic of pregnancy
Wood
Function:
These figures were commissioned by men for their private homes as a symbol of of their achievements
Content:
Ikenga means "strong right arm" and the tool in the figures hand demonstrates the person's strong physical capabilities
The horns of a ram demonstrate power and strength
Context:
This figure honors masculine attributes
Form:
Wood, beads, and metal
Function:
This was used to help the user remember key elements of a story
Carved wood decorated with beads and shells with each bead representing a particular element in the story
Zoomorphic elements are carved into the sides of the board
Context:
These were used by the historians in Mbudye society, who have the special ability to read these boards
Each board was unique depending on the story
Wood, woven raffia, cloth, and beads
Function:
These masks were worn by members of high society (members of the Kuosi) during important ceremonies
Content:
The figure is a composite human-animal figure (anthropomorphic)
It has a human face with elephant features (long trunk and ears) that symbolize power and strength
Context:
Beads were valuable items of the Bamileke people. The beadwork and elephant features were signs of wealth and prestige
Wood
Function:
These figures were placed on reliquaries (containers that store relics) to act as guards from bad spirits
Content:
Hands folded in prayer to symbolize tranquility
Prominent belly button to symbolize eternal life and youthfulness
Elongated body
Context:
Similar to the Ndop portrait figure, this sculpture was also rubber with oil to add shine and protect from insects
This figure was meant to be portable since the Fang people were nomadic
Form:
Wood and pigment
Function:
This was most likely used for decoration of the king's palace. These posts also helped support a veranda (porch-like structure) in the palace
Content:
The use of hierarchy of scale were she is larger than the king, shows that she is an important supporter of the king (cross cultural comparison with King Menkaura and Queen in Unit 2 🧠)
There is a smaller figure, the King's Junior Wife and a Eshu, the Trickster god of the Yoruba peoples playing the flute
Context:
The carver of this piece was Olowe of Ise
Adobe
: Adobe refers to a type of building material made from a mixture of clay, sand, water, and organic materials like straw or dung. It is commonly used in arid regions and has been utilized for centuries in the construction of houses and other structures.Aka Elephant Mask
: An Aka Elephant Mask is a ceremonial mask worn by the Chokwe people of Central Africa during rituals and performances. It represents power, strength, fertility, and ancestral spirits associated with elephants.Ashanti people
: The Ashanti people are an ethnic group from Ghana, known for their rich cultural heritage and artistic traditions. They have a long history of creating intricate gold jewelry, colorful textiles, and unique sculptures.Baule peoples
: The Baule peoples are an ethnic group from West Africa, specifically Ivory Coast. They have a rich artistic tradition, particularly in the creation of wooden sculptures and masks.Bundu Mask
: The Bundu mask is an African mask worn by women during initiation ceremonies among the Mende people in Sierra Leone. It represents female wisdom, maturity, and serves as a guardian spirit.Chokwe peoples
: The Chokwe peoples are an ethnic group from Central Africa, known for their rich cultural heritage and artistic traditions. They reside primarily in Angola, Democratic Republic of Congo, and Zambia.Conical Tower and Circular Wall of Great Zimbabwe
: The Conical Tower and Circular Wall of Great Zimbabwe refers to the ancient stone structures found in the archaeological site of Great Zimbabwe in southern Africa. These structures include a tall conical tower and a surrounding circular wall made of granite blocks.Crépissage de La Grand Mosque
: The traditional technique used to plaster the exterior walls of La Grand Mosque in Mali using mud mixed with straw. This method helps protect against erosion caused by wind and rain.Edo peoples
: The Edo peoples were a group of indigenous people who lived in what is now modern-day Nigeria. They had a rich cultural heritage and were known for their artistic traditions, including bronze casting.Hypostyle hall
: A hypostyle hall is a large interior space with a roof supported by columns. It is often found in ancient Egyptian and Islamic architecture.Ikenga
: Ikenga is a Nigerian sculpture that represents the personal spiritual double of an individual. It embodies the concept of personal achievement and success.Lukasa (Memory Board)
: Lukasa is a handheld wooden board used by the Luba people in Central Africa to record and transmit their history, genealogy, and cultural knowledge. It contains beads, shells, and other materials arranged in patterns that serve as mnemonic devices.Mihrab
: A mihrab is a niche or decorative element in a mosque that indicates the direction of Mecca, which is the holiest city in Islam. It serves as a focal point for prayer.Minarets
: Minarets are tall, slender towers typically found near mosques. They serve as visual markers for mosques and are used for calling Muslims to prayer.Olowe of Ise
: Olowe of Ise was a renowned Yoruba artist from Nigeria who lived in the early 20th century. He is known for his exceptional skill in woodcarving and his contributions to Yoruba art.Portrait Mask (Mblo)
: A Portrait Mask, specifically Mblo masks from Ivory Coast's Baule people, is a type of mask that represents an individual's idealized beauty or social status. These masks are worn during ceremonies and performances.Power Figure (Nkisi n’kondi)
: Power Figure, also known as Nkisi n’kondi, refers to a type of African sculpture that is believed to possess spiritual power and is used for protection, healing, and justice. These figures are often covered in nails or other materials that symbolize the activation of their powers.Reliquary Figure (Byeri)
: A reliquary figure, also known as a Byeri, is a wooden sculpture created by the Fang people of Central Africa. It serves as a container for sacred relics and is used in ancestor worship ceremonies.Torons
: Torons are horizontal wooden beams or logs used in West African architecture, particularly in traditional Malian buildings such as mosques. They provide structural support while also adding decorative elements to the overall design.Veranda Post of Enthroned King and Senior Wife (Opo Ogoga)
: This term refers to a wooden post that was used as a decorative element in the palace of the king of the Yoruba people in Nigeria. It depicts the king and his senior wife seated on a throne, symbolizing their power and status.Wall Plaque, from Oba's Palace
: This term refers to a cast brass artwork that was displayed on the walls of the Oba's Palace in Benin City, Nigeria. These plaques were created to commemorate important events and individuals.© 2024 Fiveable Inc. All rights reserved.
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