In the valleys of Northern Ghana, the remains of a mysterious vanished culture have been emerging from ancient burial mounds. As in many ancient civilizations in both the old and new worlds, the burials are accompanied by terracotta sculptures that reveal much about the people who created them. The bold expressionism and appreciation for the human form that characterizes these works is unique in the canon of African art. This stunning figure is remarkable first for his unusual size, which makes him tower above others of his kind. Though his jewelry and fly whisk hint at his high rank, we could guess he is an artistocrat from his demeanor alone. The mysterious emblem that hangs around his neck seems half cross, half crescent. We cannot be certain if it identifies his earthly status, or his spiritual beliefs. In the imagination, such a work grows in scale, taking on the stature of monumental sculpture.