Explain the symbolism of Yoruba or Dogon sculpture, referring to specific aspects of a work or works to illustrate your statements

Question

What will be an ideal response?

Answer 1

Responses will vary depending on the selection of artwork. Yoruba kings are regarded as sacred and art serves to dramatize their exceptional nature. Sculpture, royal robes, and crowns are highly decorated with abstracted figures and animals. Beaded bird heads form the pinnacle of the crowns, which refer to female ancestors from whom the king draws power. Sculptural male and female figures represent broad-based strength and ritual generation of new life. Gender roles are also the subject of Dogon sculpture. Figures are abstracted, which suggests that the work represents spirits and ideas, not specific people. There is a fundamental unity, but placement and gestures represent symbolic concepts.