The African continent is full of traces of numerous cultures that are little known, but their heritage hints at their former greatness.
Nok is one such culture. It was located in present-day Nigeria, between the Niger and Benue rivers. It is believed to have lasted from 500 BC to 200 AD. It was named after the village of Nok, near which the first ceramic sculpture was discovered in 1943, making it the oldest figurative sculpture found south of the Sahara to date. The next oldest ceramics found in the central and southern part of the African continent are over a thousand years younger.
Nok ceramics are recognizable for their stylized human figures with elaborately decorated heads and various charming shapes, as well as numerous animal sculptures.
The sculptures are hollow on the inside and are made in a spiral manner similar to pottery. They are made of local clay and gravel. The surface layer has eroded in most cases, leaving a grainy and pockmarked structure.
The figures are presented They are positioned in both standing and sitting positions and come in various sizes, from a few centimeters to even life-size. The heads are consistently enlarged in relation to the body. This apparent mismatch was considered a sign of intelligence in later African artistic tradition. Since no two identical heads have been found, it is assumed that they were not made from a mold, but each one was made separately. Many of them were made using a technique similar to carving. Although each head is unique, certain stylistic forms are repeated: triangular eyes with perforated pupils, as well as a nose, mouth, and ears that emphasize the characteristics of a man or a woman. They are also characterized by carefully shaped hair and jewelry.
The function of the sculptures is unknown, but based on the fact that traditional African art always had a socially useful role, it is assumed that they could represent their ancestors or some of the gods.
The millennia-long endurance of these ancient products is the best proof of the technical skill of their creators. The Nok culture was also one of the oldest known African centers where iron products were made.
Just as Nok art had a significant influence on other later African cultures and portraiture, scientists believe that there was a yet undiscovered ancient civilization preceding this culture.