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African & Tribal Art :
Nok, Katsina, Sokoto : Nok Sculpture of a Seated Man
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Nok Sculpture of a Seated Man - PF.6200
Origin: Nigeria
Circa: 100
BC
to 300
AD
Dimensions:
28.75" (73.0cm) high
Collection: African
Medium: Terracotta
Location: United States
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| Description |
Some of the earliest examples of sophisticated
sculpture in sub-Saharan Africa come from the
Nok culture, an Iron Age civilization that has
been dated between 900 B.C. and 200 A.D. The
terracotta sculptures range in size from small
pendants to life-size figures. We do not know
what the people called themselves, so the
civilization was named after the small tin-mining
village of Nok where the first objects were
discovered in 1928. Archaeological artifacts have
been found in throughout Nigeria, primarily to
the north of the Niger-Benue River confluence
and below the Jos escarpment detailing the
extent of their cultural influence. According to
some accounts, based on artistic similarities
between early Yoruba art forms and Nok forms,
there may be connections between Nok culture
and contemporary Yoruba peoples. What is clear
is that certain stylistic tendencies prevalent in
black African art today may have originated in
the sculptures of the Nok.
This large figure, with his pensive posture and
distinctive elongated face, is characteristic of a
sub-style of Nok statuary known by the name of
Katsina Ala, after the site where such sculptures
were first unearthed. The figure features refined
molding that Nok sculptures have become
famous for. He sits on a columnar post typical of
Nok art with his arms folded over his knees. He
rests his chin upon his arm and his little beard
drapes over. He appears to wear an unusual
headdress composed of numerous coiled
protrusions. However, it is possible that these
protrusions are braids of hair and the headdress
is open on top, much like a visor. The man is
weighed down in thick strands of beaded
necklaces, representing real life counterparts
made in stone or metal. He wears several
bracelets and anklets as well as a skirt and
protective penis sheath. This coiffure and
jewelry are reflective of his wealth and elite
position within the social structure of his tribe.
This style of sculpture is a classic of Nok art,
appreciated both for its ancient history as well as
its astounding artistry.
- (PF.6200)
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