Which prized minerals did African craftsmen use to make bowls and cups?

African craftsmen used a variety of prized minerals to make bowls and cups, depending on the region and cultural tradition. Here are some of the most notable examples:

Precious Metals:

* Gold: Found in abundance in many parts of Africa, gold was often used to create intricate bowls and cups for ceremonial and royal purposes.

* Silver: Though less common than gold, silver was also used in some regions, especially in areas with significant trade routes.

Other Minerals:

* Iron: This strong and versatile metal was used to create functional bowls and cups, especially in regions with iron-working traditions.

* Copper: Copper was often used to create decorative bowls and cups, particularly those meant for ceremonial use. It was also sometimes combined with other metals like tin to create bronze.

* Ivory: Carved from elephant tusks, ivory was a highly prized material for creating ornate bowls and cups. It was often used in combination with other materials like gold and silver.

* Wood: Many different types of wood were used to make bowls and cups. They were often intricately carved and sometimes decorated with metal inlays.

* Clay: Pottery was a common craft throughout Africa, with different regions developing unique styles and techniques. Clay bowls and cups were often used for everyday purposes and sometimes decorated with geometric patterns or animal motifs.

* Stone: Various types of stone, including granite, basalt, and soapstone, were used to make bowls and cups. These items were often highly durable and well-suited for storing food and water.

Examples by Region:

* West Africa: Gold, ivory, and wood were commonly used in the creation of bowls and cups in West Africa.

* East Africa: Stone and wood were popular materials for bowls and cups in East Africa, while ivory was used in regions with large elephant populations.

* Southern Africa: Copper, iron, and clay were frequently used for bowls and cups in Southern Africa.

It is important to remember that these are just a few examples, and there were many other minerals and materials used by African craftsmen to create bowls and cups. The specific materials used would vary depending on the specific region, cultural tradition, and the purpose of the object.