Elephants, Rhinos, Kob Antelope, Leopards And Buffalo: Meaning In African Art

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3 pages in length. Animal likenesses in African art have historically reflected a much more figurative meaning rather than what might be otherwise construed as a literal reference; that ancient cultures were infinitely more attuned to the wholeness of nature in their daily existence speaks to the interwoven connectivity they felt with the spirits of animals. As such, these beautiful creatures were routinely used as symbols of such cultural aspects as spiritual links (communicating with the gods), social needs (asking for a prosperous hunt) or fertility. Of the myriad animals depicted in masks, dances, paintings and other artistic outlets, the most prominent include elephants, rhinos, kob antelope, leopards and buffalo. Bibliography lists 5 sources.