When British colonial pioneers established the frontiers of modern Nigeria, they defined a region rich in materials that shape our understanding of African art history. Among the discovered sculptures over a century old, at least ninety percent are Nigerian, allowing us to trace tribal art history for over 2,000 years. Originally published over twenty-five years ago, this work has become a classic, featuring a stunning compilation of photographs that illustrate Nigeria's diverse art history, accompanied by interpretations from a distinguished ethnographer and art historian. Through superb plates and insightful historical analysis, it reveals the complexity of tribal art forms and their connections to the cultural, philosophical, and political contexts of their creation. After being out of print for years, its reissue offers a new generation the chance to experience the intellectual excitement it generated upon its initial release. The first part examines Nigerian art before 1850, showcasing 77 plates of rare and renowned pieces, including Nok culture terra cottas dating from 500 B.C. to A.D. 200. The second part, illustrated with 68 plates, discusses Nigerian art post-1850, highlighting the beauty of Yoruba wood carvings and other tribal art, while firmly rejecting any notion of decline in vitality or originality.
William P. Fagg Knihy
