Consider both Stonehenge and the Neolithic stemmed vessel of the ...

[sjones]

Consider both Stonehenge and the Neolithic stemmed vessel of the Longshan culture, included in this chapter of the text. Discuss the possible purposes for these works, along with their aesthetic qualities and technological requirements.
 
  What will be an ideal response?

Question 2

Consider the 10th-century C.E. bronze statue Shiva Nataraja. Discuss the importance of understanding the beliefs of the culture in which this work was created in order to develop an understanding of the meaning or message of the work. What cultural or religious function was the artist performing in creating this work?
 
  What will be an ideal response?

[mk6555]

Answer to Question 1

These products of the Neolithic period are proof of the impulse for art in humans. Students should note the aesthetic qualities of each work and how they might have reflected various aspects of Longshan culture. They should also recall some of the theories as to how the works, particularly Stonehenge, were executed.

Answer to Question 2

Students should note in their responses that one of the functions of art is to give tangible form to the unknown, an important component in depicting religious or spiritual art forms.