African and Zimbabwean art traditions

Rock art

San (hunter-gatherer) paintings found across Zimbabwe, notably in the Matobo Hills: human figures, animals (kudu, giraffe), and trance and ritual scenes, painted with mineral pigments (ochres) bound with organic materials. Thousands of years old and part of the Matobo Hills World Heritage Site.

Great Zimbabwe

Dry-stone architecture with decorative chevron and chequer patterns; soapstone birds (the Zimbabwe Birds), now national symbols, carved on monoliths – some were taken during the colonial era and later returned.

Traditional arts and crafts

Pottery, basketry (Binga baskets), wood carving (headrests, stools, drums), beadwork, Tonga stools and the Binga region's distinctive crafts, Ndebele mural painting, metalwork, and textiles.

Functions of African art

Ritual and religion, status and leadership regalia, utility, social commentary, education and identity. Art often integrates form and function.

Wider African art

West African bronze casting (Benin, Ife), masks and sculpture; their influence on European modernism (Picasso and Cubism) and the debates about cultural appropriation and restitution of looted objects.

Check yourself

1. Where are many San rock paintings found in Zimbabwe?
2. What material are the Zimbabwe Birds carved from?
3. Give two functions of traditional African art.