African art has been the root to the development of the worldly cultures and traditions. And to this day, it stands as the solid pillar that shaped civilization and the history of the world.
The origin of African art is far beyond recorded history, protected in the shadows of time.
African Rock Art is centuries old, while African jewelry craft is 75 000 years old. A study of African art history proves that the sculpture art form came from Nigeria was way back around 500BC.
Ancient rock art in Niger depicting four round headed figures and animals in the Sahara desert 
African Rock Art
Rock art is the earliest form of art in African art history and Africa holds the greatest collection of rock art spread throughout the continent. The first known rock art preserved in the Saharan sands in Niger belongs to 6500 BC. Rock art are fine examples of how ancient tribes viewed their world around them and provides a detailed insight into their thoughts, their spirituality and their physical world.
Terracotta, Stone and Metal Sculptures
Crafting sculptures were a unique talent found among the ancient African tribes. The outstanding terracotta pottery heads and portions of figures, from the Nok culture of Nigeria dates back to 500 BC through to 200 AD. These sculptures were made from grog and iron rich clay and demonstrated the strong abstract figural representation that existed in Africa for over 2500 yrs.
Stone sculptures were famous among the African Kongo people and the Sherbro from Sierra Leone of 16th C, while Ivory carving was a great skill in Benin.
The bronze casting tradition that dates back to the 9th C AD is the origin of the Igbo-Ukwu tribe of Nigeria and it was at its peak with the Ife people from Yoruba, Nigeria who began to produce very fine brass and bronze castings in the 12th C and continued to the 15th C.
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African Jewelry
Much of African culture places a great importance on appearance and jewelry was a part of their art and craft. African handmade and authentic jewelry has always received incredible attention for centuries for its uniqueness.
The original African masks, made ​​the traditional way 
Masks
Masks are representatives of the ancient African history and culture. African people show great honor to their ancestors and they design their masks with elaborate hair and jewelry to pay respect to their ancestors which they believe will please them and also bring their blessings. Masks have been greatly admired in African culture and are one of the best crafts of the African people.
African art and craft is the most cherished treasure that will never seize to fascinate people!
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By Tara Alexander
Sources: Wikipedia
Africa Global News Publication
