Gert Chesi

There is very little written about Nok culture. In part, this is because the first objects surfaced in the 30's and it was not until the 40's that any of the artifacts were studied by archaeologists. Even so, very little is known about the Nok. What is known is that a sophisticated culture existed on the Nigerian plateau nearly 3000 years ago. Almost nothing is left other than beautiful terracotta statues although there is evidence of iron working.

The purpose of the terracottas is unknown. There is speculation that some of the statutes and maybe all of them were used for funereal purposes but there is little hard evidence. The Nigerian soil has destroyed human remains and virtually all other grave goods and other artifacts. To make matters worse, the majority of Nok terracottas have been dug up and resold on the international market. There has been little to no proper archeological excavations. Rather, Nok terracottas have become an commodity in the art market.

This book does a good job of conveying what little is known about the Nok culture. However, its real value are the photos of Nok terracottas, many of which are held in private collections. The Nok Culture: Art in Nigeria 2500 Years Ago is a glimpse at a vibrant and sophisticated culture almost lost completely.… (mais)