Guide To Art History

Famous ArtistsArt Styles and PeriodsArt MediumsAncient Art

Introduction to Ancient African Art By ArtHistory.net

The art of Africa covers a broad region, of course, and also encompasses a wide arrayof art forms. According to most expert definitions, African art generally omits the art ofNorth Africa (especially regions that border the Mediterranean Sea), Christian art ofEthiopia, and the ancient art of Egypt which are discussed as movements of their ownwith unique traditions. Even so, this broad grouping also represents art from prehistorictimes to the present. Within this scope there are many subdivisions and important erasof African art.

African art has its origins in pre­history. Some rock art recently discovered in SouthAfrica near the Cape may be older than 70,000 years old. The continent is home to alarge body of prehistoric rock art. Traditional African art is comprised of art forms suchas masks, jewelry, carvings, rock art, sculpture, textiles, metalwork, and much more.Many nations are associated with particular art forms. For example, various peoples ofMali and Cote d'Ivoire are renowned for their traditional masks and headdresses.Tanzania's Makonde art of fine carving continues to be revered today.

Masks and statuettes make up a large proportion of African art in general. Often madefrom wood and decorated with pigments and other natural items like cowrie shells orivory, these items typically played a ceremonial or even religious role for the culturesthat created them. Many African artworks were created with religious and spiritualunderpinnings; others might have been created with ancestors in mind. A significantbody of African art could be said to represent the theme of power while others weresimply created to show off the wealth of some of Africa's royal courts.

Aside from rock art, sculpture, and masks, art forms like beadwork and textiles haveplayed important roles in Africa's collective arts. Jewelry has historically been importantto many of Africa's tribes for designating status or place in society. In a larger context,African art also includes oral traditions, basketry, dance, and writing systems. Africaboasts a rich folkloric tradition as well.

Africa's traditional arts have evolved, of course, and today the continent enjoys a richtapestry of contemporary arts. Many of the art forms build upon past traditions yetemploy modern sensibilities too. Some contemporary African art exhibits globalinfluences. Many major cities throughout Africa boast important art centers andmuseums that house many of Africa's great works­­from both past and present. African

art is also highly collectible throughout the world.

See Also: Cultural Events in History

Home | About | Sitemap | Contact | Privacy Policy | Disclaimer | Links Copyright © 2013­2014 Bitter Soup LLC All Rights Reserved.