African Sculpture

In West Africa the figures have elongated bodies, angular shapes, and facial features that represent an ideal rather than an individual. These figures are used in religious rituals and the surface is often coated with materials placed on them in ceremonial offerings. In contrast to these sculptures are the ones of Mande-speaking peoples of West Africa. Their sculptures are made of wood and have broad, flat surfaces while the arms and legs are shaped like cylinders. Eastern Africa is not known for their sculptures but one type that is done in this area is pole sculptures. These are a pole carved in a human shape and decorated with geometric forms.