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. In this striking example, a man with open mouth appears to be expressing strong emotions. He wears a belt of cowry shells, symbolizing wealth, and holds his hands wide in a vivid gesture. In the presence of this hypnotic work, we are drawn into the inner life of these forgotten people. Knowing nothing more about them than what this sculpture conveys, we would still be linked to their work by a universal understanding.