When in 1897 Admiral Sir Henry Rawson brought to London over 1,000 bro

Question

When in 1897 Admiral Sir Henry Rawson brought to London over 1,000 bronze statues and plaques from the ancient African cities of Benin and Ife, he set off a shockwave in the art world that reverberated throughout the twentieth century. These “Benin Bronzes” made many Europeans appreciate African art for the first time as “art.” Previously, they had viewed all African art as the quaint artifacts of a primitive society. Indeed, when the bronzes first came on display, many viewers conjectured that they must have been created by Portuguese merchants, Egyptian travelers, or one of the lost tribes of Israel, because they could not accept that an African society could create such advanced art.

The reason the Benin Bronzes caused such a stir was that they were in many ways similar to art that Europeans already considered “important,” such as the bronze sculptures of Archaic Greece. The Benin Bronzes were created using the lost-wax method, the same method used in Archaic Greece, and this technique allowed the sculptors to create works that were strikingly realistic. European audiences at the time prized realism as the highest criterion of art, and because of this the Benin Bronzes were judged inherently superior to the majority of African art, which has traditionally valued symbolism and abstraction above realism.

The display of the Benin Bronzes spurred a newfound interest in African art, which in turn exercised a great influence over the development of modern art. During the twentieth century, many of the prevailing ideas about art were revised. Modern artists embraced symbolism and abstraction, and they began to look to African works for inspiration. By the mid-twentieth century an art scholar could look at an abstract sculpture from the Yoruba culture and recognize in it thematic elements similar to those found in the modern sculptures considered “great art” in Paris or New York, such as works by Brancusi or Picasso. The art world still considers the Benin Bronzes to be some of the great treasures of African history, but now it also appreciates the bold imagery, symbolism, and beauty of other traditional African art forms.    1 
 1. The role of the Benin Bronzes in the art world, as described in the passage, is most like which of the following?

A. The discovery of a new plant with medicinal properties spurs interest in the other little-known plants in the new plant’s biological family.
B. Surrealism becomes very popular during the 1930’s because of artists such as Salvador Dali, but is soon surpassed in popularity by Abstract Expressionism.
C. A blockbuster musical from the 1950s is revived in the 1990s after decades of obscurity and takes the theater world by storm.
D. Traditional African textiles inspire a new line of clothing that is very popular for two seasons.
E. A monument sculptor begins working in bronze because the material’s malleability and durability are best suited to the needs of the monument he is planning.

2 
 2. What is the primary purpose of the passage?

A. To draw a connection between the Benin Bronzes and the work of Brancusi
B. To demonstrate the inherent superiority of African art over European art
C. To challenge the reader’s preconceptions about artistic beauty
D. To educate the reader about an important development in art history
E. To argue for a new appreciation of the merits of the Benin Bronzes

3 
 3. According to the passage, what trend in twentieth century art led to a greater appreciation of the majority of African art?

A. An increased emphasis on realism as a measure of value.
B. A decline in racist and imperialist perspectives.
C. An increased appreciation of symbolism and abstraction.
D. The emergence of artists such as Picasso and Brancusi.
E. The exhibition of the Benin Bronzes at the Victoria and Albert Museum.

4 
 4. According to the passage, an average European art enthusiast in 1896 would most likely make which of the following statements about African art?

A. “Though it pains me to say it, the finest African arts were all created by outsiders, such as European traders or the Greeks in Egypt.”
B. “I enjoy the primitive nature of African wood-carvings, and some of the tribal masks have a quaint appeal, but I could not honestly regard them as art.”
C. “The strength of African art is in its rich tradition of symbolism and abstraction, which give it an emotional vibrancy that traditional French and German paintings simply cannot match.”
D. “The European art most comparable to the sculptures of the Yoruba culture is the bronze statuary of Archaic Greece.”
E. “African art is both beautiful and terrible, coming as it does from the true heart of darkness.”

5 
 5. The passage mentions Picasso primarily in order to

A. Demonstrate the inferiority of most African art when compared to truly “great” art
B. Prove that European artists stole the ideas of African artists without giving them credit
C. Lend weight to the argument by mentioning a name readers are likely to have heard
D. Demonstrate the level of appreciation art scholars had developed for African art by the mid-twentieth century
E. Establish the superiority of Yoruba sculpture to the less advanced work of Benin and Ife

GMAT Club Reading Comprehension (RC) Quiz-I 2024   
   05 Days | 10 Passages | Win Prizes | Get Better at GMAT   
 Passage # 02  |  Date: 01 March 2024
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arpan7 · Answer

1. A(Benin bronzes refer to the new plant whose discovery spurred interest among other African art forms)
2. D(The purpose of the passage is to educate the reader about how african art forms led to important developments in art history)
3. C(An increased appreciation of symbolism and abstraction led to a greater appreciation of majority art forms of Africa)
4. B(Given in 1st para: " these “Benin Bronzes” made many Europeans appreciate African art for the first time as “art.”" )
5. D(How prominent artists were influenced by african art forms)

YogeshBardia · Answer

Q1. I think C is he only option where we talk about something which was existing before, but whose re-discovery shook the entire industry and how they thought about it.

Q2. I am confused between C and D. First C, the author challenges the preconceptions of the europeans and how they acknowledged the african art later on, but is the author challenging the reader or not? I can't figure that out. I think he's not. For D, The author tells a lot about the connection of benin bronzes and its effect on the art industry during twentieth century and I think this was the main point of the passage. Answer D, in my humble opinion.

Q3. From the second paragraph  "European audiences at the time prized realism as the highest criterion of art, and because of this the Benin Bronzes were judged inherently superior to the majority of African art, which has traditionally valued symbolism and abstraction above realism. ", we can choose option-A.

Q4. From paragraph-1 " Previously, they had viewed all African art as the quaint artifacts of a primitive society. Indeed, when the bronzes first came on display, many viewers conjectured that they must have been created by Portuguese merchants, Egyptian travelers, or one of the lost tribes of Israel, because they could not accept that an African society could create such advanced art. ", we can conclude thier disregards for African art as "Art" and so we can choose B.

Q5. From this " By the mid-twentieth century an art scholar could look at an abstract sculpture from the Yoruba culture and recognize in it thematic elements similar to those found in the modern sculptures considered “great art” in Paris or New York, such as works by Brancusi or Picasso. " we can say that they started acknowledging African Art as "Art", and kind of thought of it as superior to European art, and comparing it with Picasso's and Brancunsi's art. So we can choose D. I thought B was kind of based on the same point, but the author never mentions the European artists stealing African art styles and not giving them credits. But rather them(European Artists) being inspired from African Art.

imRaj · Answer

Hey  Sajjad1994  IMO,

Q1 ans shd be A becz the passage taks abt how bronzes sparked interest in other afrikan works.A is most closely aligned to this.

Q2 ans she be D because indeed an important development in art is being talked abt which is counting the symbolic african works also in the category of 'Art'.

Q3 ans shd be C becz the trend in twentieth century was appreciating symbolism and traditionalism.

Q4 ans shd be B because it is closely aligned with the viewers thought,which is not counting african traditional works as Art.

Q5 ans shd be D becz it is most relevant. Picasso mention is there to show how twentieth century art development led to art scholars appreciating and comparing african works with the works of OG sculptor like Picasso.
So, from 1897 to 1950 a huge increase in appreciation towards african arts happened which concluded in  the african works getting compared to  Picasso's works.

Oppenheimer1945 · Answer

1)

P3 states: The display of the Benin Bronzes spurred a newfound interest in African art, which in turn exercised a great influence over the development of modern art.

A. The discovery of a new plant with medicinal properties spurs interest in the other little-known plants in the new plant’s biological family. (exactly as per passage) 
B. Surrealism becomes very popular during the 1930’s because of artists such as Salvador Dali, but is soon surpassed in popularity by Abstract Expressionism.(African Art's importance soon surpassed in not mentioned in the passage)
C. A blockbuster musical from the 1950s is revived in the 1990s after decades of obscurity and takes the theater world by storm.( takes by storm is too extreme and revival of African Art is not mentioned)
D. Traditional African textiles inspire a new line of clothing that is very popular for two seasons.(popular for 2 seasons is not relevant as per passage)
E. A monument sculptor begins working in bronze because the material’s malleability and durability are best suited to the needs of the monument he is planning.(this is irrelevant)

P1: Admiral bringing 1000 African Art,bringing shockwave and appreciation
P2: Reason why BB caused stir...Comparison of African Art BB with European Art
P3: Superiority of BB/African Art caused stir and inspiration for other Art forms across the world

2)
A. To draw a connection between the Benin Bronzes and the work of Brancusi (this is stated as a part of passage and not the primary purpose)
B. To demonstrate the inherent superiority of African art over European art (Author is neither trying to demonstrate any thing nor showing the better nature of AA over EA)
C. To challenge the reader’s preconceptions about artistic beauty (Challenging what reader's conception is irrelvant)
 D. To educate the reader about an important development in art history (this is summary of P1,P2,P3) 
E. To argue for a new appreciation of the merits of the Benin Bronzes (Although author talks about appreciation of BB, but that is not the primary purpose. Primary Purpose is about the importance of African Art changing the interest of art forms across the world)

3) Using P2 & P3:

Before 20th century: "European audiences at the time prized realism as the highest criterion of art, and because of this the Benin Bronzes were judged inherently superior to the majority of African art, which has traditionally valued symbolism and abstraction above realism."
Later: " During the twentieth century, many of the prevailing ideas about art were revised. Modern artists embraced symbolism and abstraction, and they began to look to African works for inspiration."

3. According to the passage, what trend in twentieth century art led to a greater appreciation of the majority of African art?
A. An increased emphasis on realism as a measure of value.(realism used before 20th century)
B. A decline in racist and imperialist perspectives. (irrelvant)
 C. An increased appreciation of symbolism and abstraction(True) 
D. The emergence of artists such as Picasso and Brancusi.(Not ideal)
E. The exhibition of the Benin Bronzes at the Victoria and Albert Museum.(Not relevant)

4) Using P2:
  Previously, they had viewed all African art as the quaint artifacts of a primitive society. Indeed, when the bronzes first came on display, many viewers conjectured that they must have been created by Portuguese merchants, Egyptian travelers, or one of the lost tribes of Israel, because they could not accept that an African society could create such advanced art.

4. According to the passage, an average European art enthusiast in 1896 would most likely make which of the following statements about African art?
 A. “Though it pains me to say it, the finest African arts were all created by outsiders, such as European traders or the Greeks in Egypt.” (as per pre-thinking) 
B. “I enjoy the primitive nature of African wood-carvings, and some of the tribal masks have a quaint appeal, but I could not honestly regard them as art.” (1st part is appreciation. hence incorrect)
C. “The strength of African art is in its rich tradition of symbolism and abstraction, which give it an emotional vibrancy that traditional French and German paintings simply cannot match.” (appreciation. hence incorrect)
D. “The European art most comparable to the sculptures of the Yoruba culture is the bronze statuary of Archaic Greece.”(this is comparision. We need to look for denouncement)
E. “African art is both beautiful and terrible, coming as it does from the true heart of darkness.”(We need to look for denouncement)
5)
By the mid-twentieth century an art scholar could look at an abstract sculpture from the Yoruba culture and recognize in it thematic elements similar to those found in the modern sculptures considered “great art” in Paris or New York, such as works by Brancusi or Picasso.

5. The passage mentions Picasso primarily in order to
A. Demonstrate the inferiority of most African art when compared to truly “great” art
(no inferiority about African Art is stated)
B. Prove that European artists stole the ideas of African artists without giving them credit (stealing the idea is out of scope)
C. Lend weight to the argument by mentioning a name readers are likely to have heard (we don't know if the names are likely heard by reader. Author only states Picassio to appreciate the African Art)
 D. Demonstrate the level of appreciation art scholars had developed for African art by the mid-twentieth century (True) 
E. Establish the superiority of Yoruba sculpture to the less advanced work of Benin and Ife ( Yoruba sculture was not compared with work B&L)

mayankdgmat · Answer

IMO answers are as follows:

A
D
C
B
D

1. The role of the Benin Bronzes in the art world, as described in the passage, is most like which of the following?

Role of BB is "The display of the Benin Bronzes spurred a newfound interest in African art, which in turn exercised a great influence over the development of modern art". We need to find analogy.

A. The discovery of a new plant with medicinal properties spurs interest in the other little-known plants in the new plant’s biological family.
Yes, it is similar to that BB has created appreciation for other african art also. Hold it.

B. Surrealism becomes very popular during the 1930’s because of artists such as Salvador Dali, but is soon surpassed in popularity by Abstract Expressionism. 
No, argument is not similar to what we are looking for.

C. A blockbuster musical from the 1950s is revived in the 1990s after decades of obscurity and takes the theater world by storm. 
NO, we don't know that BB was obscure.

D. Traditional African textiles inspire a new line of clothing that is very popular for two seasons. 
NO, only for two season is an issue here.

E. A monument sculptor begins working in bronze because the material’s malleability and durability are best suited to the needs of the monument he is planning. 
No, property of material is not discussed in passage.

2. What is the primary purpose of the passage?

A. To draw a connection between the Benin Bronzes and the work of Brancusi 
NO, work is just to show that how it changed the perception.

B. To demonstrate the inherent superiority of African art over European art 
No, no superiority is being shown. both may be equally good.

C. To challenge the reader’s preconceptions about artistic beauty 
This is trap answer, because we don't know anything about reader preconception.

D. To educate the reader about an important development in art history
Yes, it was imp development which reverberated throughout the twentieth century

E. To argue for a new appreciation of the merits of the Benin Bronzes 
It is about art, not only BB. BB was used as one example.

3. According to the passage, what trend in twentieth century art led to a greater appreciation of the majority of African art?

Relevant part of passage "During the twentieth century, many of the prevailing ideas about art were revised. Modern artists embraced symbolism and abstraction, and they began to look to African works for inspiration"

A. An increased emphasis on realism as a measure of value. 
it's opposite as per relevant part of passage mentioned above.

B. A decline in racist and imperialist perspectives. 
No mention in relevant part mentioned above

C. An increased appreciation of symbolism and abstraction.
Yes, bingo. Matching with relevant part of passage.

D. The emergence of artists such as Picasso and Brancusi. 
Not at all match with relevant part.

E. The exhibition of the Benin Bronzes at the Victoria and Albert Museum. 
No match with relevant part

4. According to the passage, an average European art enthusiast in 1896 would most likely make which of the following statements about African art?

Relevant portion of passage "These “Benin Bronzes” made many Europeans appreciate African art for the first time as “art.” Previously, they had viewed all African art as the quaint artifacts of a primitive society."

A. “Though it pains me to say it, the finest African arts were all created by outsiders, such as European traders or the Greeks in Egypt.” 
Inconsistent with relevant part of passage mentioned above.

B. “I enjoy the primitive nature of African wood-carvings, and some of the tribal masks have a quaint appeal, but I could not honestly regard them as art.”
Bingo.

C. “The strength of African art is in its rich tradition of symbolism and abstraction, which give it an emotional vibrancy that traditional French and German paintings simply cannot match.” 
Inconsistent with relevant part of passage mentioned above.

D. “The European art most comparable to the sculptures of the Yoruba culture is the bronze statuary of Archaic Greece.”
Inconsistent with relevant part of passage mentioned above.

E. “African art is both beautiful and terrible, coming as it does from the true heart of darkness.”
Inconsistent with relevant part of passage mentioned above.

5. The passage mentions Picasso primarily in order to

A. Demonstrate the inferiority of most African art when compared to truly “great” art 
No, author mentioned it to compare importance of african art

B. Prove that European artists stole the ideas of African artists without giving them credit 
author mentioned it to compare importance of african art.

C. Lend weight to the argument by mentioning a name readers are likely to have heard 
But we don't know weather reader appreciate the art of a name that they likely have heard

D. Demonstrate the level of appreciation art scholars had developed for African art by the mid-twentieth century
Yes, that's true. Relevant portion of passage "By the mid-twentieth century an art scholar could look at an abstract sculpture from the Yoruba culture and recognize in it thematic elements similar to those found in the modern sculptures considered “great art” in Paris or New York, such as works by Brancusi or Picasso"

E. Establish the superiority of Yoruba sculpture to the less advanced work of Benin and Ife 
No, superiority of Yoruba was not established with Benin and Ife.

Abhishek_007 · Answer

1. The role of the Benin Bronzes in the art world, as described in the passage, is most like which of the following?

A. The discovery of a new plant with medicinal properties spurs interest in the other little-known plants in the new plant’s biological family. 
- Incorrect. This analogy doesn't capture the impact of the Benin Bronzes on the art world and the subsequent interest in African art.

B. Surrealism becomes very popular during the 1930’s because of artists such as Salvador Dali, but is soon surpassed in popularity by Abstract Expressionism. 
- Incorrect. This analogy describes the popularity of art movements over time but doesn't capture the influence of the Benin Bronzes on the perception of African art.

C. A blockbuster musical from the 1950s is revived in the 1990s after decades of obscurity and takes the theater world by storm. 
  - Correct. This analogy best captures the idea that the Benin Bronzes, after being brought to London, sparked a renewed interest in African art, similar to how a revived musical could take the theater world by storm.

D. Traditional African textiles inspire a new line of clothing that is very popular for two seasons. 
- Incorrect. This analogy focuses on a short-term popularity of a specific product but doesn't convey the lasting impact on the art world as seen with the Benin Bronzes.

E. A monument sculptor begins working in bronze because the material’s malleability and durability are best suited to the needs of the monument he is planning. 
- Incorrect. This analogy describes a practical choice made by a sculptor but doesn't capture the broader impact on the art world.

---

2. What is the primary purpose of the passage?

A. To draw a connection between the Benin Bronzes and the work of Brancusi 
- Incorrect. The passage mentions Brancusi but doesn't primarily focus on drawing a direct connection between Brancusi's work and the Benin Bronzes.

B. To demonstrate the inherent superiority of African art over European art 
- Incorrect. The passage does not argue for the inherent superiority of African art over European art; it discusses the changing perceptions of African art.

C. To challenge the reader’s preconceptions about artistic beauty 
- Incorrect. While the passage challenges historical perceptions of African art, the primary focus is on the impact of the Benin Bronzes on the art world.

D. To educate the reader about an important development in art history  
   - Correct. The passage provides historical information about the Benin Bronzes and their influence on the perception of African art, contributing to a significant development in art history.

E. To argue for a new appreciation of the merits of the Benin Bronzes 
- Incorrect. While the passage discusses the appreciation of the Benin Bronzes, the broader focus is on their impact on the art world and the development of modern art.

---

3. According to the passage, what trend in twentieth-century art led to a greater appreciation of the majority of African art?

A. An increased emphasis on realism as a measure of value. 
- Incorrect. The passage mentions that European audiences prized realism, but the trend that led to a greater appreciation of African art was the increased appreciation of symbolism and abstraction.

B. A decline in racist and imperialist perspectives. 
- Incorrect. While the passage suggests that the Benin Bronzes challenged preconceptions, it does not specifically mention a decline in racist and imperialist perspectives as the main trend.

C. An increased appreciation of symbolism and abstraction.  
   - Correct. The passage explicitly states that modern artists embraced symbolism and abstraction, leading to a greater appreciation of African art.

D. The emergence of artists such as Picasso and Brancusi. 
- Incorrect. While Picasso and Brancusi are mentioned in the passage, the main trend is the shift towards symbolism and abstraction.

E. The exhibition of the Benin Bronzes at the Victoria and Albert Museum. 
- Incorrect. The exhibition is a part of the historical context, but the primary trend is the increased appreciation of symbolism and abstraction.

---

4. According to the passage, an average European art enthusiast in 1896 would most likely make which of the following statements about African art?

A. “Though it pains me to say it, the finest African arts were all created by outsiders, such as European traders or the Greeks in Egypt.” 
- Incorrect. The passage mentions that viewers conjectured the Benin Bronzes might have been created by outsiders, but this statement goes beyond what the passage suggests.

B. “I enjoy the primitive nature of African wood-carvings, and some of the tribal masks have a quaint appeal, but I could not honestly regard them as art.”  
   - Correct. The passage states that previously Europeans viewed all African art as the artifacts of a primitive society.

C. “The strength of African art is in its rich tradition of symbolism and abstraction, which give it an emotional vibrancy that traditional French and German paintings simply cannot match.” 
- Incorrect. This statement goes beyond what the passage suggests about the perception of African art in 1896.

D. “The European art most comparable to the sculptures of the Yoruba culture is the bronze statuary of Archaic Greece.” 
- Incorrect. This statement is not attributed to the average European art enthusiast in 1896; it refers to the Benin Bronzes and Yoruba sculptures.

E. “African art is both beautiful and terrible, coming as it does from the true heart of darkness.” 
- Incorrect. This statement is a more extreme view and not directly supported by the passage.

---

5. The passage mentions Picasso primarily in order to

A. Demonstrate the inferiority of most African art when compared to truly “great” art 
- Incorrect. The passage does not aim to show the inferiority of African art but rather highlights Picasso's inspiration from African works.

B. Prove that European artists stole the ideas of African artists without giving them credit 
- Incorrect. The passage does not suggest theft of ideas but rather a recognition of thematic elements.

C. Lend weight to the argument by mentioning a name readers are likely to have heard 
- Incorrect. While this choice is partially correct, it does not capture the primary reason for mentioning Picasso in the context of African art influence.

D. Demonstrate the level of appreciation art scholars had developed for African art by the mid-twentieth century  
   - Correct. The passage mentions Picasso to illustrate that, by the mid-twentieth century, art scholars could recognize thematic elements in African art similar to those found in the works of modern artists.

E. Establish the superiority of Yoruba sculpture to the less advanced work of Benin and Ife 
- Incorrect. The passage does not compare Yoruba sculpture directly to Benin and Ife works but rather discusses broader themes of artistic influence and appreciation.

Anugmat740 · Answer

1. The role of the Benin Bronzes in the art world, as described in the passage, is most like which of the following? 
A. The discovery of a new plant with medicinal properties spurs interest in the other little-known plants in the new plant’s biological family.  ~ Incorrect,The discovery create spur about the discovery of a new plant and not about other known plants.

B. Surrealism becomes very popular during the 1930’s because of artists such as Salvador Dali, but is soon surpassed in popularity by Abstract Expressionism.  ~ Incorrect the artform is not supressed and still appreciated.

C. A blockbuster musical from the 1950s is revived in the 1990s after decades of obscurity and takes the theater world by storm.
- Correct. This analogy best captures the idea that the Benin Bronzes, after being brought to London, sparked a renewed interest in African art, similar to how a revived musical could take the theater world by storm.

D. Traditional African textiles inspire a new line of clothing that is very popular for two seasons.  ~ Incorrect, the Benin Bronzes still are still popular, while this clothing line is popular only for two seasons.

E. A monument sculptor begins working in bronze because the material’s malleability and durability are best suited to the needs of the monument he is planning.  ~ There is no clear indication why the sculptor begins to working in these kind of sculptures.

2. What is the primary purpose of the passage?

A. To draw a connection between the Benin Bronzes and the work of Brancusi  ~ This is shown in the last passage to draw comparison between European and African arts.

B. To demonstrate the inherent superiority of African art over European art  ~ Incorrect, later the european art takes inspiration from African art.

C. To challenge the reader’s preconceptions about artistic beauty  ~Incorrect, the challenges are of the european artefacts and not about reader's preconceptions.

D. To educate the reader about an important development in art history  ~ Correct, In the passage, Author introuduce a discovery of benin Bronzes and how it shocked european who considered african arts as inferior. This discovery also develops interest in the other african arts and in this way new modern art development takes place.

E. To argue for a new appreciation of the merits of the Benin Bronzes  ~ There is no argument about the appreciations of Benin Bronzes earlier they were found and valued and also revered  in the later years.

3. According to the passage, what trend in twentieth century art led to a greater appreciation of the majority of African art?

A. An increased emphasis on realism as a measure of value.

B. A decline in racist and imperialist perspectives.

C. An increased appreciation of symbolism and abstraction.  Directly mentioned in the line "  Modern artists embraced symbolism and abstraction  , and they began to look to African works for inspiration."

D. The emergence of artists such as Picasso and Brancusi.

E. The exhibition of the Benin Bronzes at the Victoria and Albert Museum.

4. According to the passage, an average European art enthusiast in 1896 would most likely make which of the following statements about African art?

1896 is before the discovery of Benin Bronzes. Popular european view is that african art represent primitive society and not advanced unlike european arts.
These “Benin Bronzes” made many Europeans appreciate African art for the first time as “art.”~ This line highlight that the european did not appreciate african art before the discovery of Benin Bronzes.

A. “Though it pains me to say it, the finest African arts were all created by outsiders, such as European traders or the Greeks in Egypt.”  ~ Correct, in line with the above summary.

B. “I enjoy the primitive nature of African wood-carvings, and some of the tribal masks have a quaint appeal, but I could not honestly regard them as art.”  ~ No primitve art is considered inferior by europeans.

C. “The strength of African art is in its rich tradition of symbolism and abstraction, which give it an emotional vibrancy that traditional French and German paintings simply cannot match.”  ~ The european art is not appreciated by the europeans.

D. “The European art most comparable to the sculptures of the Yoruba culture is the bronze statuary of Archaic Greece.”  ~ This view came later after 19the century.

E. “African art is both beautiful and terrible, coming as it does from the true heart of darkness.”  ~ The african art is not appreciated by europeans.

5. The passage mentions Picasso primarily in order to

An art scholar would take inspiration from african arts and found them similar to the great works of Picasso. The Picasso is mentioned to highlight that the african artist produce works which are similar to Picasso and African art form is similar to the European arts.

A. Demonstrate the inferiority of most African art when compared to truly “great” art  ~ Incorrect the art is similar not inferior.

B. Prove that European artists stole the ideas of African artists without giving them credit  ~Irrelevant not mentioned in the passage.

C. Lend weight to the argument by mentioning a name readers are likely to have heard  ~ No, this is not the clear reason.

D. Demonstrate the level of appreciation art scholars had developed for African art by the mid-twentieth century  ~ Correct,in line with our summary above.

E. Establish the superiority of Yoruba sculpture to the less advanced work of Benin and Ife  ~ Incorrect, the two are similar and one is not superior to other.

isha1389 · Answer

1. C
The display of the Benin Bronzes spurred a newfound interest in African art, which in turn exercised a great influence over the development of modern art.

2. D
view of art was discussed in the 20th century.

3. A
European audiences at the time prized realism as the highest criterion of art, and because of this, the Benin Bronzes were judged inherently superior to the majority of African art, which has traditionally valued symbolism and abstraction above realism.

4. B
This statement reflects the prevalent attitude towards African art among Europeans in the late 19th century, characterized by a perception of African art as primitive and lacking in artistic merit.

5. D
Appreciation of art by him

Sss678 · Answer

Q1. The role of the Benin Bronzes in the art world, as described in the passage, is most like which of the following? 
My answer is A)
A. The discovery of a new plant with medicinal properties spurs interest in the other little-known plants in the new plant’s biological family.
As per the passage, the Benin Bronze changed the perception of African art in the art world , which in turn, exerted a profound influence on the development of modern art. It also drew attention to other African artworks. It can be seen in the following lines -"The display of the Benin Bronzes spurred a newfound interest in African art, which in turn exercised a great influence over the development of modern art." and "The art world still considers the Benin Bronzes to be some of the great treasures of African history, but now it also appreciates the bold imagery, symbolism, and beauty of other traditional African art forms"

B. Surrealism becomes very popular during the 1930’s because of artists such as Salvador Dali, but is soon surpassed in popularity by Abstract Expressionism.
The way how Surrealism is surpassed in popularity by Abstract Expressionism is not similar to the way how Beniz bronzes were perceived and their role in development of modern art

C. A blockbuster musical from the 1950s is revived in the 1990s after decades of obscurity and takes the theater world by storm.
Benin bronzes cannot be comapred with a long-lost blockbuster musical of 1950s which was revived in 1990s. There is no timeline connected to the Benin bronzes and their role is much more than just shocking the art world.

D. Traditional African textiles inspire a new line of clothing that is very popular for two seasons.
Traditional African clothing cannot be compared to Benin bronzes because the textiles inspired a new line of clothing which remains popular for two seasons whereas the influence of Benin bronzes was more profound and long-lasting.

E. A monument sculptor begins working in bronze because the material’s malleability and durability are best suited to the needs of the monument he is planning.
The role of Benin bronzes is nowhere even near to the way of working of monumnet sculptor or his preference for bronze.

Q2. What is the primary purpose of the passage? 
My answer is D)
D. To educate the reader about an important development in art history
The author is trying to mention an importnat event in art history and why that event was so significant in re-shaping the modern art.

A. To draw a connection between the Benin Bronzes and the work of Brancusi
Bancusi is mentioned only in the last para to highlight the European art works and artists. The author is not interested in making any connection between Brancusi and the Bronzes

B. To demonstrate the inherent superiority of African art over European art
The author is not trying to demonstrate the superiority of Arican art over European art but the revival of African art and their influence over modern art

C. To challenge the reader’s preconceptions about artistic beauty
The passage does not challenge the preconceptions of readers but  educate the readers about an important event. The author tries to enlighten the readers about the changed perception of African art, particulary Benin bronzes.

E. To argue for a new appreciation of the merits of the Benin Bronzes
The passage mentions the discovery of Benin bronzes and its linkage to the appreciation of African art in the world. It does not mentions any new appreciation of the bronzes itself.

Q3.According to the passage, what trend in twentieth century art led to a greater appreciation of the majority of African art? 
My answer is C)
C. An increased appreciation of symbolism and abstraction.
The discovery and appreciation of Benin bronzes led to the increased attention to other African artforms which demostrated symbolism and abstraction. It is clear in the following line -"During the twentieth century, many of the prevailing ideas about art were revised. Modern artists embraced symbolism and abstraction, and they began to look to African works for inspiration."

A. An increased emphasis on realism as a measure of value.
The art world was already emphasising on realism even before twentieth century. This was not a new trend in the twentienth century. The following line in passage clarifies it -"European audiences at the time prized realism as the highest criterion of art, and because of this the Benin Bronzes were judged inherently superior to the majority of African art, which has traditionally valued symbolism and abstraction above realism."

B. A decline in racist and imperialist perspectives.
There is no mention about decline in racist and imperialist perspective in the passage.

D. The emergence of artists such as Picasso and Brancusi.
The artists were already popular by the twentieth century as per the passage , so it was not a new trend then.

E. The exhibition of the Benin Bronzes at the Victoria and Albert Museum.
The exhibition of the Benin bronzes cannot be called a trend per se.

Q4. According to the passage, an average European art enthusiast in 1896 would most likely make which of the following statements about African art? 
My answer is B).
B. “I enjoy the primitive nature of African wood-carvings, and some of the tribal masks have a quaint appeal, but I could not honestly regard them as art.”
Before the arrival of Benin bronzes in London, the world did not view African art as "art" It can be seen in the following lines- "These “Benin Bronzes” made many Europeans appreciate African art for the first time as “art.” Previously, they had viewed all African art as the quaint artifacts of a primitive society."

A. “Though it pains me to say it, the finest African arts were all created by outsiders, such as European traders or the Greeks in Egypt.”
Before 1897 i.e. the arrival of Benin bronzes in London, world did not know the finesse of African art at all, let alone thinking about its creators.It was only after their arrival that people tried to protray their creators to be European traders or the Greeks. as can be seen in the following lines - "Indeed, when the bronzes first came on display, many viewers conjectured that they must have been created by Portuguese merchants, Egyptian travelers, or one of the lost tribes of Israel, because they could not accept that an African society could create such advanced art."

C. “The strength of African art is in its rich tradition of symbolism and abstraction, which give it an emotional vibrancy that traditional French and German paintings simply cannot match.”
In 1896, the European art admirers were not aware of the significance of African art. The following lines clarify it - "These “Benin Bronzes” made many Europeans appreciate African art for the first time as “art.” Previously, they had viewed all African art as the quaint artifacts of a primitive society."

D. “The European art most comparable to the sculptures of the Yoruba culture is the bronze statuary of Archaic Greece.”
Same explanation as answer choice C

E. “African art is both beautiful and terrible, coming as it does from the true heart of darkness.”
Same explanation as answer choice C

Q5.  The passage mentions Picasso primarily in order to 
My answer is C)
C. Lend weight to the argument by mentioning a name readers are likely to have heard
The author wants to emphasise the greatness of European art that resides in the minds of an art scholar and Picasso is one of the renowned artists. So the author mentions Picasso to lend crdibility to his argument of significance of European art.

A. Demonstrate the inferiority of most African art when compared to truly “great” art
The author does not mention Picasso to undermine the African art but to emphasize the European art.

B. Prove that European artists stole the ideas of African artists without giving them credit
There is no mention of European artist stealing the ideas of African artists anywhere in the passage.

D. Demonstrate the level of appreciation art scholars had developed for African art by the mid-twentieth century
The author mention Picasso to emphasize the European art and not to show the appreciation of art scholars for African art.

E. Establish the superiority of Yoruba sculpture to the less advanced work of Benin and Ife
it is out of the scope of passage

missionmba2025 · Answer

1. The role of the Benin Bronzes in the art world, as described in the passage, is most like which of the following?A. The discovery of a new plant with medicinal properties spurs interest in the other little-known plants in the new plant’s biological family. - Incorrect. This option describes a scenario of discovering related items within a specific category, but it doesn't capture the broader impact and appreciation that the Benin Bronzes had on African art as a whole.
B. Surrealism becomes very popular during the 1930’s because of artists such as Salvador Dali, but is soon surpassed in popularity by Abstract Expressionism. - Incorrect. This option describes the rise and fall of a specific art movement, which is not analogous to the impact of the Benin Bronzes on the appreciation of African art.
C. A blockbuster musical from the 1950s is revived in the 1990s after decades of obscurity and takes the theater world by storm. - Incorrect. This option describes the revival of a specific work rather than a broader impact on a category of art.
D. Traditional African textiles inspire a new line of clothing that is very popular for two seasons. - Incorrect. This option describes a short-lived trend inspired by African art, rather than a lasting impact on the appreciation of African art.
E. A monument sculptor begins working in bronze because the material’s malleability and durability are best suited to the needs of the monument he is planning. -  Correct . This option captures the idea of a significant shift or awakening in the appreciation of a particular art form due to specific examples or influences, similar to how the Benin Bronzes influenced the appreciation of African art.

2. What is the primary purpose of the passage?A. To draw a connection between the Benin Bronzes and the work of Brancusi - Incorrect. While the passage mentions Brancusi in the context of modern artists being inspired by African art, it is not the primary purpose of the passage.
B. To demonstrate the inherent superiority of African art over European art - Incorrect. The passage discusses how the Benin Bronzes challenged European perceptions of African art, but it does not argue for the superiority of one over the other.
C. To challenge the reader’s preconceptions about artistic beauty - Incorrect. While the passage does challenge the Eurocentric view of art, its primary focus is on the impact of the Benin Bronzes on the appreciation of African art.
D. To educate the reader about an important development in art history -  Correct . The passage informs readers about the significance of the Benin Bronzes in the art world and their influence on the development of modern art.
E. To argue for a new appreciation of the merits of the Benin Bronzes - Incorrect. While the passage discusses the appreciation of the Benin Bronzes, it does so in the context of their broader impact on the art world, rather than arguing for their merits.

3. According to the passage, what trend in twentieth-century art led to a greater appreciation of the majority of African art?A. An increased emphasis on realism as a measure of value. - Incorrect. The passage states that European audiences valued realism but considered the Benin Bronzes inherently superior despite their departure from realism.
B. A decline in racist and imperialist perspectives. - Incorrect. While the passage discusses the shift in perception of African art, it does not attribute it solely to a decline in racist and imperialist perspectives.
C. An increased appreciation of symbolism and abstraction. -  Correct . The passage mentions that modern artists embraced symbolism and abstraction, which led to a greater appreciation of African art that valued symbolism and abstraction over realism.
D. The emergence of artists such as Picasso and Brancusi. - Incorrect. While the passage mentions modern artists being inspired by African art, it does not attribute the appreciation of African art solely to the emergence of specific artists.
E. The exhibition of the Benin Bronzes at the Victoria and Albert Museum. - Incorrect. While the exhibition of the Benin Bronzes may have contributed to the increased appreciation of African art, it was the broader trend of embracing symbolism and abstraction in modern art that led to a greater appreciation of African art.

4. According to the passage, an average European art enthusiast in 1896 would most likely make which of the following statements about African art?A. “Though it pains me to say it, the finest African arts were all created by outsiders, such as European traders or the Greeks in Egypt.” - Incorrect. This statement suggests an acknowledgment of African art's origin, which contradicts the passage's description of Europeans conjecturing that the Benin Bronzes were created by outsiders.
B. “I enjoy the primitive nature of African wood-carvings, and some of the tribal masks have a quaint appeal, but I could not honestly regard them as art.” -  Correct . This statement reflects the Eurocentric view prevalent at the time, as described in the passage.
C. “The strength of African art is in its rich tradition of symbolism and abstraction, which give it an emotional vibrancy that traditional French and German paintings simply cannot match.” - Incorrect. This statement attributes positive qualities to African art, which contrasts with the passage's description of European perceptions of African art as primitive.
D. “The European art most comparable to the sculptures of the Yoruba culture is the bronze statuary of Archaic Greece.” - Incorrect. This statement acknowledges the similarity between African and European art, which contradicts the passage's description of Europeans struggling to accept African art's sophistication.
E. “African art is both beautiful and terrible, coming as it does from the true heart of darkness.” - Incorrect. This statement reflects a derogatory and racially charged view of African art, which is not explicitly mentioned in the passage.

5. The passage mentions Picasso primarily in order toA. Demonstrate the inferiority of most African art when compared to truly “great” art - Incorrect. The passage does not suggest that Picasso's mention is intended to demonstrate the inferiority of African art.
B. Prove that European artists stole the ideas of African artists without giving them credit - Incorrect. The passage does not discuss the issue of plagiarism or lack of credit given to African artists by European artists.
C. Lend weight to the argument by mentioning a name readers are likely to have heard -  Correct . The mention of Picasso, a well-known artist, reinforces the idea that modern artists were inspired by African art, lending credibility to the argument presented in the passage.
D. Demonstrate the level of appreciation art scholars had developed for African art by the mid-twentieth century - Incorrect. While Picasso's mention does illustrate the influence of African art on modern artists, it does not specifically address the level of appreciation among art scholars.
E. Establish the superiority of Yoruba sculpture to the less advanced work of Benin and Ife - Incorrect. The passage does not compare the artistic merits of Yoruba sculpture to those of Benin and Ife; rather, it discusses how African art as a whole influenced modern artists.

The answers are
1. E
2. D
3. C
4. B
5. C

Sajjad1994 · Answer

Hello Everyone!

The competition mode is off, so now you can see your posts. The OAs are as follows:

A D C B C

Day 2  questions are posted, visit the main thread to get the links to the questions. I will comment on your replies later today. Official explanations will be posted soon, within 30 minutes.

Good Luck!

Sajjad1994 · Answer

Official Explanation

1. The role of the Benin Bronzes in the art world, as described in the passage, is most like which of the following?

Explanation

In both cases, a previously unknown item is found to have unexpected merits, and this discovery generates interest in items similar to the discovered item.

Correct answer: A

Sajjad1994 · Answer

Official Explanation

2. What is the primary purpose of the passage?

Explanation

The passage provides historical context and information about the impact of the Benin Bronzes on the art world. It discusses how these artifacts challenged European perceptions of African art, leading to a newfound appreciation and influencing the development of modern art. The passage does not explicitly argue for the inherent superiority of African art over European art or primarily aim to challenge preconceptions about artistic beauty. Instead, it presents a historical narrative about the influence of the Benin Bronzes on the appreciation and interpretation of African art in the broader context of art history.

Answer: D

Sajjad1994 · Answer

Official Explanation

3. According to the passage, what trend in twentieth century art led to a greater appreciation of the majority of African art?

Explanation

The passage mentions that during the twentieth century, prevailing ideas about art were revised, and modern artists began to embrace symbolism and abstraction. This shift in artistic preferences contributed to a newfound interest in African art, including works that traditionally valued symbolism and abstraction over realism. The passage specifically notes that modern artists looked to African works for inspiration, and by the mid-twentieth century, art scholars could recognize thematic elements in African sculptures that were similar to those found in modern sculptures considered  "great art"  in Paris or New York, such as works by Brancusi or Picasso. Therefore,  option C  is the correct answer.

Refereence from the passage:  “During the twentieth century, many ideas about art were revised. Modern artists embraced symbolism and abstraction, and they began to look to African works for inspiration.”

Answer: C

Sajjad1994 · Answer

Official Explanation

4. According to the passage, an average European art enthusiast in 1896 would most likely make which of the following statements about African art?

Explanation

The passage mentions that before the Benin Bronzes were brought to London in 1897, many Europeans viewed all African art as the quaint artifacts of a primitive society. Therefore, the prevailing perspective was one that did not consider African art as true  "art"  in the European sense. This aligns with  option B,  where the enthusiast appreciates certain aspects of African art but does not regard them as genuine art.

Answer: B

Sajjad1994 · Answer

Official Explanation

5. The passage mentions Picasso primarily in order to

Explanation

The reference to Picasso serves to illustrate the influence of African art on modern Western art. Picasso, a well-known and influential figure in modern art, is mentioned to demonstrate that even prominent Western artists were inspired by African works. This inclusion helps emphasize the impact of African art on the development of modern art and would likely resonate with readers familiar with Picasso's significance in the art world.

Answer: C

Oppenheimer1945 · Answer

Sajjad1994

How are you rejecting option A for Q4 and option D for Q5 (C doesn't hint that readers are aware of Picaso)?

Sajjad1994 · Answer

Question #4  is an easy 500-550 level question. The reason is that answer choices are very easy to right-off, and one is easy to recognize as the correct answer. C, D, and E are nowhere in contention. A is wrong because it uses extreme words for whom we have no support from the passage. It is like translating "I will punish you" into "I will kill you".

Question #5  is bit tricky because of C vs D. D is rather opposite. Lets compare the both.

C. Lend weight to the argument by mentioning a name readers are likely to have heard.   This is all good while we read the passage we can infer C.

D. Demonstrate the level of appreciation      art scholars had developed for African art by the mid-twentieth century   . Do you really think the author named Brancusi or Picasso to demonstrate the level of  African Art?

D is half right and half wrong.

Sajjad1994 · Answer

Everyone, please make sure that AI-generated explanations will not be considered.

Thank you!

When in 1897 Admiral Sir Henry Rawson brought to London over 1,000 bro

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When in 1897 Admiral Sir Henry Rawson brought to London over 1,000 bro

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