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Nigeria, Ife (Yoruba) |
- This head of an elite African woman comes from the kingdom of Ife,
once the cultural, religious, and political center of the Yoruba people.
- The shrine head is made of TERRA-COTTA,
a naturally occurring clay that is easily molded and hardens when dried
or fired.
- The idealized features of this sculptured head suggest it was meant
more as a commemoration of the woman than as a portrait. It was probably
placed on an altar in the royal palace and used in religious ceremonies.
Key ideas.
Where does it come from?
What does it look like?
How was it used?
How was it made?
Discussion questions.
Additional resources.
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