Observation

Most of the candidates attempted this question but unfortunately, they could not match their enthusiasm with performance. While some performed averagely, others were muddling up their responses. Some candidates gave responses on African architecture, painting and ceramics, when the question specifically requested them to write on the woodcarvings. These inappropriate responses made them lose a significant part of the obtainable marks. They were expected to state some of the following points:

(a) Wood carving is common among tribes in the coastal regions of West Africa e.g the Yoruba (Nigeria), Baule (ivory coast) Dogon and Bambara (Mali), Ashanti (Ghana).

(b)       Tools:  Axe, Mallet, Knives, Adze, Chisel etc.

(c)  - Religious e.g. Ancestral figures and masks, funerary figures etc.

- Aesthetic e.g. doors panels, pillars etc.

- Utility e.g. mortal/pestle, jewelleries, house hold items, canoes

 (d)      -           Symmetrical in composition
-          forms are simplified into basic geometric shapes
-          features are idealized according to societal belief e.g. head is usually emphasized because of the general belief that it is the seat of wisdom and human glory.
-           figures usually rigid and motionless.
-           some are carved seated, kneeling standing, etc.

(e)        -           Ancestral figures, masks, doorposts, drums, pillars, stools, funerary objects,
etc.