Use several of the linked sources to examine non-textual sources to learn about the precolonial history of the Kongo. Then, write a 3- to 4-paged essay (750+ words) organized around a central thesis to explain what the artifacts, art, and architecture tell you about Kongolese society. You might address spiritual beliefs, gender relations, social hierarchies, relationships between Africa states or between the Kongo and Europeans, trade and the availability of materials, craftsmanship, artistic conventions, and similar topics of historical interest.
The objective is for you to describe how you are drawing conclusions from the items linked below, not for you to do “research” on the topic.
Cecile Fromont wrote a well-received monograph on how the Kongolese used the Cross motif and other Christian symbols. Feel free to review her work if you are going to examine the crucifixes. There is also a very useful essay on Kongolese ivories by Nichole Bridges. However, please refrain from using other outside sources.
Choose from the following items:
- crucifix 1, crucifix 2, and triple crucifix
- power figure 1, power figure 2, and power figure 3
- staff (click on image for more information)
- funerary figure (click on image for more information)
- trumpet 1 and trumpet 2 (click on images for more information)
- female figure and child
- iron sword
- ivory tusk
- Cathedral of the Holy Savior
- 17th century map
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