Studied by 10 people
Who is the artist of the "Veranda Post"?
a) El Anatsui
b) Wangechi Mutu
c) Dumile Feni
d) Olowe of Ise
d) Olowe of Ise
What was the purpose of reliquary guardian figures in Fang culture?
a) To ward off harm to the contents of the reliquary box
b) To protect the reliquary box from theft
c) To honor the deceased ancestors
d) To serve as a warning to uninitiated
a) To ward off harm to the contents of the reliquary box
What is the importance of elder men in the Fang Society?
a) They are believed to have special powers
b) They are the only ones allowed to consult reliquary boxes
c) They are responsible for maintaining and consulting reliquary boxes
d) They are responsible for creating reliquary guardian figures
c) They are responsible for maintaining and consulting reliquary boxes.
What is the symbolism behind the [reliquary] figure's (elongated torso, large head, and closed eyes?
a) The closed mouth represents the figure's calm and contemplative nature
b) The large head represents the importance of the coiffeur in Fang culture
c) The features are purely decorative and have no symbolic meaning
d) The elongated torso represents the figure's power and strength
a) The closed mouth represents the figure's calm and contemplative nature
What is the purpose of reliquary guardian figures in Fang culture?
a) To serve as a decorative piece
b) To ward off spirits or humans
c) To depict an actual human or natural
d) To showcase the artist's skills
b) To ward off spirits or humans
What is abstraction in African art?
a) A technique used to create realistic and lifelike sculptures
b) A form of art that is only found in Fang culture
c) A style that focuses on naturalistic depictions of human figures
d) A conceptual approach that emphasizes spiritual ideas
d) A conceptual approach that emphasizes spiritual ideas
What is the significance of the coiled energy and calm dignified appearance of the [reliquary] figure?
It reflects the spiritual beliefs of the
It represents the power and strength of
It is a representation of the deceased
It symbolizes the balance between calmness and vitality
It symbolizes the balance between calmness and vitality
Where is the Metropolitan Museum of Art located?
Washington D.C.
Seattle, Washington
Ise, Nigeria
New York, New York
New York, New York
What is the original purpose of the sculpture?
To be part of the Temple
To be a veranda post
To be a freestanding statue
To be a decorative wall carving
To be a veranda post
What are the palaces of the Yoruba built around?
Market place
Gardens
Courtyards
Lakes
Courtyards
What are Olowe of Ise's sculptures known for?
Elongation and asymmetry
Miniature size
Symmetry
Bright colors
Elongation and asymmetry
What is a distinct feature of Olowe of Ise's sculptures?
They are very small
They project beyond the capital
They are always symmetrical
They are brightly painted
They project beyond the capital
What does the size difference between king and his wife in Olowe of Ise's sculpture signify?
Gender imbalance
The wife's weakness
Political power
The king's superiority
Gender imbalance
In Yoruba culture, what do birds on a crown represent?
Respect for women
Victory
The kings power
Wealth
Respect for women
Who places the crown on a new Oba's (king) head?
His mother
His eldest son
A priest
His wife
His wife
What is packed inside the crown in Yoruba culture?
Feathers
Gold
Medicine
Jewels
Medicine
In Yoruba belief, which aspect of 'two heads' is associated with destiny?
Ori Ade
Neither Ori Enu and Ori Ade
Ori Enu
Both Ori Enu and Ori Ade
Ori Enu
What role did reliquary guardian figures play in young men's initiations?
They were used as puppets to educate young men about their ancestors
They were used to represent the deceased ancestors
They were used to teach young men about the importance of lineage heads
They were used to ward off evil spirits during the initiation process
They were used as puppets to educate young men about their ancestors
How do male and female reliquary guardian figures differ in terms of their purpose and symbolism?
Male figures represent deceased ancestors, female figures represent living
Male figures were more abstract -female figures were more naturalistic
Male figures were larger in size, while female figures were smaller
Male figures used for initiations-female figures were used for protection
Male figures used for initiations; female figures were used for protection
What is the relationship between the figure's enlarged head and the emphasis on the coiffeur (hairdo) in Fang culture? [reliquary figure; byeri]
The coiffeur is a symbol of wealth and status in Fang culture
The coiffeur is a representation of the deceased ancestors
The coiffeur is a symbol of fertility and motherhood
The enlarged head represents the importance of the coiffeur in Fang culture
The enlarged head represents the importance of the coiffeur in Fang culture
What is the original context and use of the Elephant (Aka) Mask in the Bamileke society?
It was worn by warriors in battle.
It was used in religious ceremonies.
Elephant Society members danced to honor the king, promote social harmony.
It was used as a decorative piece in homes.
Elephant Society members danced to honor the king, promote social harmony.
What materials were used in the creation of the Elephant (Aka) Mask?
Cloth, beads, and raffia.
Metal, shells, and bone.
Stone, paint, and clay.
Wood, feathers, and fur.
Cloth, beads, and raffia.
What is the significance of the isosceles triangle pattern on the Elephant (Aka) Mask?
It represents the shape of the mask itself.
It represents the unity of the Bamileke people.
It represents the power of the Fon, a divine king.
It represents the body of the leopard, a powerful animal.
It represents the body of the leopard, a powerful animal.
What is the significance of the optical quality of the Elephant (Aka) Mask?
It represents the dynamic energy of the mask when worn and danced.
It represents the power of the Bamileke warriors.
It represents the power of the Fon, a divine king.
It represents the animals that the Fon could transform into.
It represents the dynamic energy of the mask when worn and danced.
Who was allowed to dance and wear the Elephant (Aka) Mask in the Bamileke kingdom?
Only members of the Kuosi Society.
Only members of the Elephant Society.
All members of the society.
Only the king and his family.
Only members of the Elephant Society.
What role did the lukasa (memory boards) play in the Luba Kingdom of the Democratic Republic of Congo?
They were used as a form of currency in trade.
They were used for artistic purposes in the royal court.
A mnemonic devices to recount history and solve current problems.
They were used exclusively by the Luba kings for personal entertainment.
A mnemonic devices to recount history and solve current problems.
Other than the members of the Mbuye society in Luba culture had the skill and knowledge to read the lukasa?
Common citizens
Kings and royalty
Diviners
Traders and merchants
Diviners
In Luba culture, what was the role of diviners?
They were historians who recorded the Luba royal lineage.
Individuals able to predict the future-interpret the Lukasa spiritual rites
They were responsible for crafting the lukasa (memory boards).
They were artists who created intricate sculptures for the royal court.
Individuals able to predict the future by interpreting the Lukasa spiritual rites
In Luba culture, what is the role of the members of the Mbudye Society?
They are the primary traders responsible for resource exchange.
They are individuals with the power to predict the future.
They are the royal lineage keepers who maintain historical records.
They are considered "men of memory" and undergo lengthy religious training.
They are considered "men of memory" and undergo lengthy religious training.
What is the significance of the full-body costume worn with the Elephant (Aka) Mask?
It represents the animals that the Fon could transform into.
It represents the power of the Fon, a divine king.
It represents the power of the Bamileke warriors.
It represents the unity of the Bamileke people.
It represents the unity of the Bamileke people.
Which ethnic group in the Democratic Republic of Congo do the Luba people belong to?
Hutu
Tutsi
Kongo
Bantu
Bantu
What natural resources did the Luba Kingdom have access to in their region?
Timber and agricultural land
Diamonds, emeralds, and rubies
Oil and gas reserves
Gold, ivory, and copper
Gold, ivory and copper
What was the primary function of the lukasa in Luba culture?
To reinforce the foundations of kingship and support current leadership
To serve as a form of currency
To record chronological history
To create intricate artworks
To reinforce the foundations of kingship and support current leadership
Which attribute is typically emphasized in the Ikenga figures?
The animal attributes of the figure
The power of the right hand, often holding a sword
The decorative patterns on the body
The left hand's ability to hold various items
The power of the right hand, often holding a sword
How are Ikenga figures consecrated (considered sacred) in Igbo culture?
They are carved with intricate patterns.
They are displayed in public shrines.
They are kept in the owner's home shrine.
They are commissioned by a master carver.
They are kept in the owner's home shrine.
What do the rams' horns on the Ikenga figure symbolize in Igbo culture?
The importance of body decoration
The figure's connection to the animal kingdom
The strength and aggression associated with the head
The figure's role as a hunter
The strength and aggression associated with the head
What does the the Ikenga figure for the Igbo represent?
As a decorative piece for ceremonial events
As a representation of a specific individual's likeness
As a symbol of authority and accomplishment
As a portrait of a high-ranking member of Igbo society
As a symbol of authority and accomplishment
What does the presence of scarification patterns on the Ikenga figure's temple and horns suggest about its identity?
It suggests high-rank or status.
It signifies a member of a secret society.
It represents a warrior figure.
It indicates a connection to agricultural traditions.
It suggests high-rank or status.
Why is scarification important in Igbo culture?
It reflects an individual's connection to the animal kingdom.
It serves as a form of body decoration for festivals.
It conveys social status and achievements in the community.
It indicates a person's involvement in sports and athletics.
It conveys social status and achievements in the community.
What is the significance of the mask's placement and raffia covering?
To honor the ancestral spirits
To obscure the wearer's face and create a sense of mystery
To protect the wearer from the elements
To symbolize the transition from girlhood to womanhood
To obscure the wearer's face and create a sense of mystery
What is the role of "chrysalis" in the initiation process for young Mende girls?
To create a sense of danger and fear
To symbolize their transformation from girlhood to womanhood
To teach them about womanhood and beliefs
To prepare them for marriage and motherhood
To symbolize their transformation from girlhood to womanhood
What is a key characteristic of Yoruba kings' crowns?
They have birds attached
They are made of wood
They are always red
They are very large
They have birds attached
How does Olowe of Ise's art reflect Yoruba cultural beliefs?
Through abstract forms
Through symbolic representation of power and spirituality
By showing historical events
I depicting daily life
Through symbolic representation of power and spirituality
When were horses introduced to the Yoruba region?
Fifteenth century
Nineth century
Twentieth century
Tenth century
Tenth century
Who is the woman depicted in the photograph with the portrait mask? [Mblo]
Moya Yanso
Owie Kimou
Susan Vogel
Kouame Ziarey
Moya Yanso
What is the main reason why the Moya Yanso portrait mask would have remained hidden in Baule society up to the 1970s?
It was considered too sacred to be seen by outsiders.
It was believed to have lost its spiritual powers.
It was only used for special occasions.
It was not considered valuable or important.
It was considered too sacred to be seen by outsiders.
What is the significance of the scarification patterns on a Baule portrait mask?
They represent age and experience.
They represent animal features.
They represent wisdom and beauty.
They suggest health and vitality.
They represent age and experience.
What is the significance of the triangular brass additions on the portrait mask?
They represent age and experience.
They are a symbol of wisdom.
They suggest health and vitality.
They represent animal horns.
They represent age and experience.
Who is the owner of the Moya Yanso portrait mask in the photograph?
Her stepson
Moya Yanso
A collector in Brussels
A collector in Minneapolis
Her stepson
What is the significance of the half slit eyes and high forehead on a Baule portrait mask?
They represent age and experience.
They represent animal features.
They represent modesty and wisdom.
They suggest health and vitality.
They represent modesty and wisdom.
What is the main function of the six projecting tubular pieces on the crown of the Moya Yanso portrait mask?
To communicate with ancestors and spirits.
To represent the woman in the photograph.
To suggest an idealized inner state of beauty and morality.
To serve as a decorative element.
To serve as a decorative element.
What is the role of women in Baule masquerade performances?
They are responsible for making the masks.
They are the only ones who can wear masks.
They are the main performers.
They are the audience members.
They are the audience members.
How is the movement of the dancer often described during the Chokwe Pwo mask performance?
Spontaneous and improvisational
Graceful and stately
Energetic and acrobatic
Chaotic and unpredictable
Graceful and stately
What would the dancer typically wear underneath the Chokwe Pwo mask?
A feathered headdress
A suit made of metal plates
A flowing robe with beads
A tight-fitted bodystocking covered in raffia cloth
A tight-fitted bodystocking covered in raffia cloth
Which of the following elements of the Chokwe mask reflects the cultural beliefs and practices of the Chokwe people?
a) The size of the mask
b) The material used to make the mask
c) The color of the mask
d) The design and features of the mask
d) The design and features of the mask
How does the mask reflect the cultural beliefs and practices of the Chokwe people?
a) Through its connection with the spiritual realm.
b) Through its representation of the founding female ancestor.
c) Through its use in honoring women.
d) Through its elaborate hairstyle.
b) Through its representation of the founding female ancestor.
What is the relationship between the mask, the white powder around the eyes in Chokwe culture?
a) The mask is a symbol of the spiritual realm.
b) The mask connects with the spiritual realm.
c) The mask represents the spiritual realm.
d) The mask is used in spiritual ceremonies.
b) The mask connects with the spiritual realm.
What is the concept of "ideal womanhood" in traditional African masks?
a) The representation of women as inferior to men
b) The representation of women as powerful and influential
c) The representation of women as submissive and obedient
d) The representation of women as equal to men
b) The representation of women as powerful and influential
What is the purpose of the mask's elaborate hairstyle?
a) To reflect the cultural beliefs and practices of the Chokwe people.
b) To honor women and the founding female ancestor.
c) To connect with the spiritual realm.
d) To represent the ideal woman.
d) To represent the ideal woman.
What is the significance of the mask's color?
a) It symbolizes the mask's connection to the founding female ancestor.
b) It represents the mask's spiritual power.
c) It reflects the mask's role in honoring women.
d) It shows the mask's continued use in Chokwe culture.
a) It symbolizes the mask's connection to the founding female ancestor.
What is the role of the mask in Chokwe society?
a) To honor women and the founding female ancestor.
b) To represent the ideal woman.
c) To reflect the cultural beliefs and practices of the Chokwe people.
d) To connect with the spiritual realm.
a) To honor women and the founding female ancestor.
What materials were used in the creation of the nkisi n'kondi power figure?
a) Herbs, soil, claws, stones
b) Wood, paint, metal, resin, ceramic
c) Wood, glass, metal, seeds
d) Stone, glass, shells, seeds
b) Wood, paint, metal, resin, ceramic
What is the role of sacred medicines in the Kongo belief system?
a) To resolve disputes
b) To summon supernatural forces
c) To represent spirits
d) To cure physical illness
d) To cure physical illness
What is the significance of the term 'nkisi' in Kongo culture?
a) It is a type of wood
b) It means medicine
c) It refers to a spirit
d) It is the name of a kingdom
b) It means medicine
What is the significance of the materials used in the creation of the nkisi n'kondi power figure?
a) They represent different spirits
b) They are chosen at random
c) They are used for decoration
d) They hold spiritual power
d) They hold spiritual power
What is the significance of the insertions in the Power Figure (Nkisi N'Kondi)?
a) To cure physical illness
b) To activate the figure
c) To summon supernatural forces
d) To represent different spirits
b) To activate the figure
What is the significance of the visual elements and details of the Power Figure (Nkisi N'Kondi)?
a) They are chosen at random
b) They represent different spirits
c) They are used for decoration
d) They hold spiritual power
d) They hold spiritual power
What is the role of the nkisi nkondi figure as an oath-taking image?
a) To represent the king
b) To serve as a religious symbol
c) To record agreements
d) To protect against sorcery
c) To record agreements
What are the positive and negative consequences of activating nkisi?
a) Positive: summoning supernatural forces, Negative: causing harm
b) Positive: representing spirits, Negative: causing chaos
c) Positive: curing physical illness, Negative: causing social ills
d) Positive: resolving disputes, Negative: causing destruction
d) Positive: resolving disputes, Negative: causing destruction
What is the cultural and artistic significance of the Power Figure (Nkisi N'Kond)?
a) To act as a container for sacred substances
b) To resolve disputes and protect against evil
c) To represent the great god Ne Kongo
d) To summon supernatural forces
b) To resolve disputes and protect against evil
What is the significance of the saliva in sealing the function of the nkisi nkondi?
a) It symbolizes the connection between the figure and the nkisi spirit
b) It is used to create a decorative effect
c) It serves as a protective barrier for the figure
d) It represents the power of the nganga
a) It symbolizes the connection between the figure and the nkisi spirit
What is the significance of the nkisi nkondi figures in Afro-Atlantic religious practices?
a) They are used for decoration
b) They are used for healing
c) They represent different spirits
d) They are used for protection
d) They are used for protection
What is the purpose of the medicine pouch in the abdomen of the nkisi nkondi figure?
a) To hold the nkisi spirit
b) To represent the power and authority of the nganga
c) To serve as a decorative element
d) To provide protection for the figure
a) To hold the nkisi spirit
What is the role of the nganga in activating nkisi?
a) To prepare sacred substances
b) To summon supernatural forces
c) To insert objects into the figures
d) To carve the figures
a) To prepare sacred substances
What is the role of the nganga or spiritual specialist in activating nkisi?
a) To sell the minkisi figures to clients
b) To create the minkisi figures
c) To provide medicine for the minkisi
d) To remember the purpose of each nail and knot in the minkisi
d) To remember the purpose of each nail and knot in the minkisi
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Flashcard (40)