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 Although
African art may be unfamiliar and seem complex, much of the
imagery is recognizable. The proportions and style of the human
figure may vary by region or peoples but the portrayals are
often easily identified--a male or female image, a mother and
child, or an equestrian, for example. Animals are often depicted
because their physical attributes or behavior suggest character
traits--the elephant for its size and strength, the leopard
for its lethal cleverness, and so forth. Various animals may
be combined to create a composite creature to invoke greater
spiritual power. African art also includes depictions of plant
motifs and household items, ranging from furniture to weapons,
that can serve as useful comparisons with the actual objects.
Geometric motifs, especially in textiles, often impart proverbial
or symbolic meanings. Very few images are confined to one culture.
Even some as specialized as the mudfish or the Indian snake
charmer, Mammy Wata, can be found across several regions. This
provides yet another approach to studying African art as well
as accessing this database. |
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