Traditional African Art

What were African masks traditionally used for?

• they were part of costumes used in religious and social events

• they were used to express man's connection and relationship with nature

• they represented the spirits of ancestors

• All of the above

African masks are made from what types of materials (check all that apply)?

• wood

• ivory

• metal

• textiles

• pottery

The majority of masks are made of wood because:

• Trees are in plentiful supply in the forest

• The carver believes that wood is the most natural home for the spirit in the mask because trees have souls

• both of these are true

Symbols and patterns used on African Masks were mostly __________.

• geometric

• vertical

• random

What are Ndops?

• A wooden mask used to communicate with the spirits of the dead

• A wooden sculpture used to represent the ruler of the tribe/kingdom

• A metallic plaque made to commemorate the rulers

The Benin Iyoba mask was made for what purpose?

• To commemorate the important loved one of the kings of the tribe

• To communicate with the spirits of nature like the desert spirits

• To link the wearer to the spirits of the dead ancestors

Which is true about Traditional African Art?

• It is highly realistic and adheres to classical representations of mankind

• It combines different materials such wood, clay, and metals

• It is influenced by outside artforms such as European and Asian art

Which civilization started the African Iron Age?

• Nok Civilization

• Yoruba Civilization

• Igobo Ukwu

Why is the head often enlarged or exaggerated in traditional African Art?

• To emphasize the beauty of the person it portrays

• They want to portray power and strength by exaggerating the head

• The head is believed to be guiding the wearer's destiny

Which metals were used in Traditional African Art? Click ALL that applies.

• Copper

• Ivory

• Gold

• Iron