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...
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 splendid figure captures our attention with his powerful facial features. His mouth is open as if he were telling a tale or singing. He seems to be communicating essential information across the barriers of time and culture; if we listen closely, we will perhaps hear of a splendid world all but forgotten by men.