Africans have contributed to the world’s cultural heritage
with works of astonishing innovation.
7000 B.C.E.–present
Beginner's guide
Here you can find all the introductory content you'll need to begin your exploration of the art of Africa.
- Peoples and cultures
- Historical overview: to 1600
- Historical overview: 1600–present
- Aesthetics
- Humans, animals and symbols
- Form and meaning
- Religion and the spiritual realm
- Art and politics
- Rites of passage
- Art and the individual
- European contact and colonization
- The reception of African Art in the West
- Western appreciation of African art
- Masquerade Basics
Regions
East Africa and the Horn of Africa
West Africa
Central Africa
North Africa
Southern Africa
All content | Africa
From monumental mosques to delicate wooden sculptures.
Browse Smarthistory images for teaching & learning!