Nok Terracottas and Sub-Saharan African Art

A set of vocabulary flashcards based on the lecture about Nok terracottas and their significance in Sub-Saharan African art.

Nok Terracottas

Ancient terracotta sculptures from Sub-Saharan Africa, specifically Nigeria, dated around 2,500 years old.

Subtractive Technique

A sculpting method where material is removed from a solid block, evident in the finished details of Nok heads.

Slip

A mixture of clay and water used to create a smooth surface and apply color to terracotta.

Hollow Form

A type of sculpture construction where the object is not solid, allowing for lightweight pieces like Nok heads.

Stylistic Features

Common traits in Nok terracottas, including triangular shaped eyes, perforated pupils, and arched brows.

Cultural Context

The original environment and use of the terracotta figures that is largely unknown due to the lack of documentation of their discovery.

Artistic Tradition

A historical practice of creating art, evidenced in West Africa with Nok terracottas to demonstrate a sophisticated culture.

Perforations

Openings in the terracotta, like those in the eyes and mouth, suggesting a possible connection to ritual or storytelling.

Inner Serenity

A theme conveyed through the aesthetics of the Nok heads, indicating deeper emotional or moral qualities represented by the artists.

Geometric Forms

Highly refined shapes created in the facial features of Nok terracottas that exemplify the artistic style.