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HOME :
African & Tribal Art :
Nok, Katsina, Sokoto : Nok Terracotta Horned Head
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Nok Terracotta Horned Head - PF.5734
Origin: Nigeria
Circa: 200
AD
to 500
AD
Dimensions:
15" (38.1cm) high
x 10.5" (26.7cm) wide
Collection: African
Medium: Terracotta
Additional Information: Thermoluminescence Tested by Daybreak Archaeometric Laboratory
Location: United States
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| Description |
The artifacts of the ancient Nok people are
among the oldest sculptures found in Africa
outside of Egypt. Because their existence was
not even know until archaeological expeditions
in the 1940’s, almost nothing is known of their
customs or culture. However, through recent
finds, we can determine the expanse of their
civilization and the unity of their artistic style.
Although only a fragment, the emphasis of Nok
statuary was always on the head, a stylistic
tendency still prevalent in black African art. The
figure wears a helmet with four horns, a leather
type of which continues to be worn today by
some tribes in Nigeria. This is a rare subject
matter in Nok art. The modeling of his facial
features attests to the remarkable artistry of the
Nok sculptors. His huge almond-shaped eyes
and wide, flat nose are both typical of the style.
He has a small, pointed beard that projects from
the tip of his chin. There is an overall slant to
the posture of his head, further exaggerated by
his broad forehead. Thermoluminescence tests
conducted at the Daybreak Archaeometric
Laboratory affirm the validity of the dating. This
piece is a relic from an ancient civilization; a
reminder of how rich and beautiful our common
cultural heritage really is.
- (PF.5734)
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