Question

What material was often used in African art to depict people of power?

Answer 1

In African art, materials such as wood, bronze, ivory, and clay have been commonly used to depict people of power, such as kings, chiefs, and ancestral figures. For instance, bronze was notably used in the Benin Kingdom for creating intricate plaques and sculptures that represented rulers and important figures. Wood carvings were prevalent across various cultures, often representing leaders or spiritual figures, while ivory was highly valued and used for smaller, detailed representations. Overall, the choice of material often reflected not only the artistic tradition but also the socio-political significance of the figures being depicted.