Lecture 11: African Art and Global Trade, 1450–1860

Introduction

Examines the interactions and impacts of global trade in the context of African art from 1450 to 1860.
Focuses on key artworks, materials, cultural significance, and the effects of trade with Europe.

Key Concepts and Definitions

Triangular Trade Routes: Established at the end of the 15th century, connecting Africa to Europe, facilitating the exchange of goods, including art and cultural artifacts.
Incised: Refers to a method of cutting or engraving designs into a surface.
Fetish: A European term describing human-made substitutes for gods, often used in a spiritual or religious context.
Amulet: An object believed to protect its owner, worn or carried for personal safety or magical benefits.
Lost-wax Casting: A metal sculpture creation method. A clay mold surrounds a wax model; upon firing, the wax melts away, allowing molten metal to fill the space.

Materials in African Art

Ivory: Derived from the tusks of elephants, which were utilized as a primary material in several artworks.
- Example: Salt cellars were made from ivory and used by wealthy Europeans during the Renaissance as display pieces and salt storage.
Wood and Copper Alloy: Commonly used materials for various sculptures and artifacts.
Cast Iron: Material used for specific artworks, including some royal symbols.

Specific Art Objects and Their Contexts

Salt Cellars:
- Made of ivory; notable for displaying 4 indigenous women and 4 Portuguese soldiers.
- Sapi/Sape: Present-day Sierra Leone, these were among the first Africans to encounter Portuguese soldiers.
Kongo Cross:
- Material: Wood and copper alloy.
- Figure: Tonu Malau, also known as Saint Anthony of Padua, depicted holding a cross and baby Jesus.
- Context: Represents religious syncretism with local traditions.
Divination Tray:
- Material: Made of wood, features low relief carvings.
- Context: Used by the King of Alada for divination practices. The middle top displays a bearded face known as Orisha, a deity prominent in Yoruba art.
Pendant Portrait of Iyoba (Queen):
- Material: Carved from ivory.
- Represents the mother of the king (Oba); facial features include light scars and prominent lines indicating strength, previously adorned with iron bars symbolizing fortitude.
Portuguese Soldier Sculpture:
- Material: Copper alloy; made using the lost-wax casting technique, it represents a European soldier holding a gun indicative of European military technology during the period.
- Function: Designed as protective sculptures flanking altars and rooftops.
Palace Shrine Pendant:
- Material: Copper alloy.
Tusk for Ancestral Altar:
- Material: Composed of ivory, intricately carved with depictions of Portuguese warriors, royal figures, and kings adjacent to lauded animals, symbolizing strength and leadership.
Kuba Royal Statue: Detailed representation of royalty; specific characteristics vary.
Cast-Iron Bull: Made of cast iron; significant in depicting trade and economic aspects of African societies during this period.

Symbolism and Cultural Significance

Headpieces of Portuguese Soldiers: Portrayed the cross-cultural interactions and exchanges during trade.
Kuba and Karafwe Kings: Viewed as blacksmiths, where iron and metalwork symbolized power and ascension to kingship.
Sika Dwa Kofi (Golden Throne): Represents the blend of power and prestige within the royal context, symbolizing political authority and divine right to rule.
Use of Iron Objects: Abstract images of cattle with horns symbolize wealth and prosperity, reflecting the agrarian and economic aspects of life in Africa during this period.