The Symbolism of Animals in Africa
In Africa, the use of animals in artwork isn’t merely for show. Each animal has a specific meaning to the artist, and certain animals signify certain character qualities. This is why you will see so many carvings of animals, or evenanimals embroidered onto African clothing.
What Do Animals Symbolize in African Art?
The Lion - The lion is an emblem for royalty, strength, conquest, valor, pride, wisdom, authority, courage and protection. The lioness represents the moon, femininity and fierce motherhood.
The Leopard - The leopard signifies ferocity, aggression, the Great Watcher, and courage.
The Elephant - The elephant signifies strength, royalty, dignity, patience, wisdom, longevity, and happiness. This is a large symbol of good luck, especially when the elephant’s trunk is pointed up. The elephant represents status and power since royalty used to ride on elephants. For Christians in Africa, the elephant is a symbol of clarity and temperance and signifies Christ trampling a serpent.
The Camel - Although many cultures see the camel as a symbol of arrogance, laziness and bad temper, African’s have a much different view. Countries that use camels see it in a more positive light. In Africa, the camel is a symbol of sobriety, and for Christians it is a symbol of temperance because it drops to its knees to receive a burden, as if before God in humility and obedience.
Patchwork in African American Art - Animal Art is a very beautiful pattern which is placed on animals to display a safari type of artwork. It’s displayed on giraffes, elephant statues and other types of artwork. The picture at the top of this article displays a gorgeous glossy statue trio which has a wildly whimsical look from the patchwork pattern of earth tone animal-skin prints. This can be a colorful display of African American Animal art to be used to enhance your home or office.
Friday’s Proverb
“Anger draws arrows from the quiver, but good words draw kola-nuts from the bag”.
- Nigerian proverb