All Flashcards
What is the function of the Conical Tower of Great Zimbabwe?
Symbol of wealth and power, possibly resembling a granary.
What is the significance of annual maintenance for the Great Mosque of Djenné?
Reinforces community bonds and social cohesion.
What does brass signify in the Wall Plaque from Oba's Palace?
Trade networks, especially with the Portuguese.
What is the cultural significance of the Sika Dwa Kofi?
Sacred symbol of the Ashanti people, believed to contain the soul of the nation.
What is the purpose of the nails in the Power Figure (Nkisi n’kondi)?
Inserted to call upon the spirit within, especially for serious affairs.
What does the Ndop figure commemorate?
The king and his achievements.
Define 'hierarchy of scale'.
A technique where the most important figure is the largest.
Define 'regalia'.
The emblems or insignia of royalty, such as crowns and scepters.
Define 'divine kingship'.
The belief that a ruler's authority comes from a god or divine source.
Define 'matrilineal society'.
A society in which ancestry is traced through the female line.
Define 'anthropomorphic'.
Having human characteristics.
Define 'nkisi'.
A spirit or sacred object believed to have special powers.
Compare the functions of the Ndop figure and the Wall Plaque from Oba's Palace.
Both commemorate rulers, but the Ndop is a portrait figure while the Wall Plaque showcases power and wealth.
Compare the Pwo Mask and the Bundu Mask.
Both represent ideal female characteristics, but Pwo honors ancestors while Bundu is used in initiation ceremonies.
Compare the Great Mosque of Djenne and the Great Zimbabwe.
The Great Mosque of Djenne is a place of worship that reinforces community bonds. The Great Zimbabwe is a royal complex and trading center that is a symbol of wealth and power.
Compare the functions of the Lukasa and oral traditions.
Both are used to preserve and transmit oral histories. The Lukasa is a memory board, while oral traditions are stories passed down through generations.
Compare the Aka Elephant Mask and the Mblo Mask.
The Aka Elephant Mask is worn by members of high society during important ceremonies. The Mblo Mask is worn at ritual dances to honor an individual.