---
title: "AP Art History Comparison Essay Practice"
description: "248 Comparison Long Essays written in the AP format, each scored part by part."
canonical: "https://fiveable.me/ap-art-history/frqs/comparison"
type: "frq-type-practice"
subject: "AP Art History"
---

# AP Art History Comparison Essay Practice

## What the Comparison Essay asks

The comparison essay is FRQ 1 on the AP Art History exam, the first of two long essays. You get one work with its image, select a second work from a short list or your own knowledge, and compare how the two convey meaning.

- **35 min**: suggested time
- **8 points**: across rows A to E
- **50%**: of your score, across all six FRQs

| Part | What it asks | Points |
| --- | --- | --- |
| A: Identification | Two accurate identifiers for the work you select | 1 |
| B: Visual description | A visual characteristic of each work, one point per work | 2 |
| C: Comparison | Two similarities or differences, each with visual evidence from both works | 2 |
| D: Claim | A defensible claim about what the similarities or differences mean | 1 |
| E: Contextual evidence | Context from each work that supports the claim | 2 |

## How Comparison Essay practice works

1. **Read the full question.** The prompt, the image of the required work, and the list of works you can select from, laid out the way the exam shows them.
2. **Write on a 35-minute timer.** The time to plan for on exam day. Pause it or turn it off, and your response saves as you go.
3. **Submit for a score out of 8.** Your response is scored against the scoring guidelines written for that question. Your first score is included.

## All 248 questions

### Unit 1: Global Prehistory, 30,000-500 bce (11)
- [Animal and zoomorphic forms in art](/ap-art-history/frq-practice?id=69e13eaddd50deea07bcf809&type=frq-1-comparison-long-essay)
- [Animal depiction in spiritual and cultural expression](/ap-art-history/frq-practice?id=69e13eb1dd50deea07bcf814&type=frq-1-comparison-long-essay)
- [Spiritual and supernatural figures in art](/ap-art-history/frq-practice?id=69e13eb3dd50deea07bcf815&type=frq-1-comparison-long-essay)
- [Stylized human figures across sculptural traditions](/ap-art-history/frq-practice?id=69e13eb6dd50deea07bcf81b&type=frq-1-comparison-long-essay)
- [Funerary vessels and burial art traditions](/ap-art-history/frq-practice?id=69e13eb6dd50deea07bcf81c&type=frq-1-comparison-long-essay)
- [Animal form depiction across cultures and time periods](/ap-art-history/frq-practice?id=69e13eb7dd50deea07bcf81d&type=frq-1-comparison-long-essay)
- [Stylized human figure representation across cultures](/ap-art-history/frq-practice?id=69e13eb7dd50deea07bcf81e&type=frq-1-comparison-long-essay)
- [Funerary art across cultures and time periods](/ap-art-history/frq-practice?id=69e13eb8dd50deea07bcf81f&type=frq-1-comparison-long-essay)
- [Astronomical alignment in ancient monumental architecture](/ap-art-history/frq-practice?id=69e13ebbdd50deea07bcf82c&type=frq-1-comparison-long-essay)
- [Animal depiction across prehistoric and historical art](/ap-art-history/frq-practice?id=69e13ec5dd50deea07bcf82f&type=frq-1-comparison-long-essay)
- [Stylized geometric patterns across cultures](/ap-art-history/frq-practice?id=69e13ed6dd50deea07bcf846&type=frq-1-comparison-long-essay)

### Unit 2: Ancient Mediterranean, 3500 bce-300 ce (36)
- [Sacred architecture facilitating religious practices](/ap-art-history/frq-practice?id=69e13ed6dd50deea07bcf847&type=frq-1-comparison-long-essay)
- [Visual depiction of social status through portraiture](/ap-art-history/frq-practice?id=69e13ed8dd50deea07bcf852&type=frq-1-comparison-long-essay)
- [Artistic depictions of ruler power and authority](/ap-art-history/frq-practice?id=69e13ed8dd50deea07bcf855&type=frq-1-comparison-long-essay)
- [Royal authority through artistic representation](/ap-art-history/frq-practice?id=69e13edadd50deea07bcf856&type=frq-1-comparison-long-essay)
- [Ancient Egyptian funerary architecture and design principles](/ap-art-history/frq-practice?id=69e13edfdd50deea07bcf85b&type=frq-1-comparison-long-essay)
- [Artistic depictions of ruler power and authority](/ap-art-history/frq-practice?id=69e13ee0dd50deea07bcf85c&type=frq-1-comparison-long-essay)
- [Sculptural figures as religious proxies across cultures](/ap-art-history/frq-practice?id=69e13ee3dd50deea07bcf864&type=frq-1-comparison-long-essay)
- [Sacred architectural design across cultures and time periods](/ap-art-history/frq-practice?id=69e13eeedd50deea07bcf86a&type=frq-1-comparison-long-essay)
- [Artistic representations of afterlife beliefs across cultures](/ap-art-history/frq-practice?id=69e13efcdd50deea07bcf880&type=frq-1-comparison-long-essay)
- [Funerary art depicting afterlife status and power](/ap-art-history/frq-practice?id=69e13effdd50deea07bcf881&type=frq-1-comparison-long-essay)
- [Idealized human figures across cultures and periods](/ap-art-history/frq-practice?id=69e13f02dd50deea07bcf889&type=frq-1-comparison-long-essay)
- [Civic and political spaces across cultures](/ap-art-history/frq-practice?id=69e13f05dd50deea07bcf88a&type=frq-1-comparison-long-essay)
- [Religious sculpture depicting the human form](/ap-art-history/frq-practice?id=69e13f0add50deea07bcf893&type=frq-1-comparison-long-essay)
- [Artistic representation of couples across cultures](/ap-art-history/frq-practice?id=69e13f16dd50deea07bcf899&type=frq-1-comparison-long-essay)
- [Artistic representations of political power and authority](/ap-art-history/frq-practice?id=69e13f1edd50deea07bcf8ad&type=frq-1-comparison-long-essay)
- [Architectural demonstration of ruler power and authority](/ap-art-history/frq-practice?id=69e13f21dd50deea07bcf8af&type=frq-1-comparison-long-essay)
- [Architecture integrated with natural landscape environments](/ap-art-history/frq-practice?id=69e13f25dd50deea07bcf8b8&type=frq-1-comparison-long-essay)
- [Royal family portraiture across cultures](/ap-art-history/frq-practice?id=69e13f26dd50deea07bcf8b9&type=frq-1-comparison-long-essay)
- [Religious architecture and ritual accommodation](/ap-art-history/frq-practice?id=69e13f27dd50deea07bcf8ba&type=frq-1-comparison-long-essay)
- [Royal power depicted through visual hierarchy](/ap-art-history/frq-practice?id=69e13f28dd50deea07bcf8bb&type=frq-1-comparison-long-essay)
- [Afterlife beliefs in funerary art across cultures](/ap-art-history/frq-practice?id=69e13f2bdd50deea07bcf8c5&type=frq-1-comparison-long-essay)
- [Divine and supernatural narratives in visual art](/ap-art-history/frq-practice?id=69e13f2ddd50deea07bcf8c6&type=frq-1-comparison-long-essay)
- [Idealized human figures across artistic traditions](/ap-art-history/frq-practice?id=69e13f2ddd50deea07bcf8ce&type=frq-1-comparison-long-essay)
- [Architectural complexes expressing political power and authority](/ap-art-history/frq-practice?id=69e13f3bdd50deea07bcf8d1&type=frq-1-comparison-long-essay)
- [Funerary art depicting social status and identity](/ap-art-history/frq-practice?id=69e13f49dd50deea07bcf8ea&type=frq-1-comparison-long-essay)
- [Battle depictions across artistic traditions and periods](/ap-art-history/frq-practice?id=69e13f49dd50deea07bcf8eb&type=frq-1-comparison-long-essay)
- [Domestic architecture reflecting wealth and status](/ap-art-history/frq-practice?id=69e13f4bdd50deea07bcf8ec&type=frq-1-comparison-long-essay)
- [Ruler depictions conveying power and authority](/ap-art-history/frq-practice?id=69e13f4ddd50deea07bcf8f5&type=frq-1-comparison-long-essay)
- [Dynamic movement in sculptural and artistic representation](/ap-art-history/frq-practice?id=69e13f4ddd50deea07bcf8f6&type=frq-1-comparison-long-essay)
- [Human figure portraying emotion and physical condition](/ap-art-history/frq-practice?id=69e13f50dd50deea07bcf8f7&type=frq-1-comparison-long-essay)
- [Portrait representation of social status and values](/ap-art-history/frq-practice?id=69e13f52dd50deea07bcf8fe&type=frq-1-comparison-long-essay)
- [Architectural expression of political power and authority](/ap-art-history/frq-practice?id=69e13f61dd50deea07bcf908&type=frq-1-comparison-long-essay)
- [Artistic depictions of battle across civilizations](/ap-art-history/frq-practice?id=69e13f65dd50deea07bcf914&type=frq-1-comparison-long-essay)
- [Artistic depictions of battle across civilizations](/ap-art-history/frq-practice?id=69e13f6fdd50deea07bcf926&type=frq-1-comparison-long-essay)
- [Monumental architecture demonstrating state power and authority](/ap-art-history/frq-practice?id=69e13f70dd50deea07bcf927&type=frq-1-comparison-long-essay)
- [Sacred spaces reflecting religious beliefs](/ap-art-history/frq-practice?id=69e13f77dd50deea07bcf934&type=frq-1-comparison-long-essay)

### Unit 3: Early Europe and Colonial Americas, 200-1750 CE (54)
- [Sacred architecture and worshiper experience design](/ap-art-history/frq-practice?id=69e13f73dd50deea07bcf928&type=frq-1-comparison-long-essay)
- [Funerary architecture and afterlife beliefs](/ap-art-history/frq-practice?id=69e13f73dd50deea07bcf929&type=frq-1-comparison-long-essay)
- [Architecture projecting political and religious authority](/ap-art-history/frq-practice?id=69e13f74dd50deea07bcf932&type=frq-1-comparison-long-essay)
- [Visual depiction of biblical narratives across time periods](/ap-art-history/frq-practice?id=69e13f76dd50deea07bcf933&type=frq-1-comparison-long-essay)
- [Religious and political authority in art and architecture](/ap-art-history/frq-practice?id=69e13f77dd50deea07bcf935&type=frq-1-comparison-long-essay)
- [Personal adornment communicating status and identity](/ap-art-history/frq-practice?id=69e13f85dd50deea07bcf940&type=frq-1-comparison-long-essay)
- [Human suffering and emotional intensity in art](/ap-art-history/frq-practice?id=69e13f9add50deea07bcf956&type=frq-1-comparison-long-essay)
- [Artistic depictions of historical military conflicts](/ap-art-history/frq-practice?id=69e13f9ddd50deea07bcf95b&type=frq-1-comparison-long-essay)
- [Sacred pilgrimage architecture and religious accommodation](/ap-art-history/frq-practice?id=69e13f9edd50deea07bcf95c&type=frq-1-comparison-long-essay)
- [Symbolic imagery in royal or political authority](/ap-art-history/frq-practice?id=69e13f9edd50deea07bcf95d&type=frq-1-comparison-long-essay)
- [Sacred spaces and religious architectural design](/ap-art-history/frq-practice?id=69e13f9fdd50deea07bcf95e&type=frq-1-comparison-long-essay)
- [Visual representation of rulers communicating power authority](/ap-art-history/frq-practice?id=69e13fa2dd50deea07bcf96a&type=frq-1-comparison-long-essay)
- [Artistic representations of grief and mourning](/ap-art-history/frq-practice?id=69e13fafdd50deea07bcf970&type=frq-1-comparison-long-essay)
- [Sacred spaces reflecting political power and authority](/ap-art-history/frq-practice?id=69e13fbcdd50deea07bcf985&type=frq-1-comparison-long-essay)
- [Royal residences expressing architectural power](/ap-art-history/frq-practice?id=69e13fbfdd50deea07bcf986&type=frq-1-comparison-long-essay)
- [Religious narrative visual representation across artworks](/ap-art-history/frq-practice?id=69e13fc4dd50deea07bcf98e&type=frq-1-comparison-long-essay)
- [Artistic depictions of couples across time periods](/ap-art-history/frq-practice?id=69e13fc4dd50deea07bcf98f&type=frq-1-comparison-long-essay)
- [Human figure sculpture conveying political ideals](/ap-art-history/frq-practice?id=69e13fc6dd50deea07bcf995&type=frq-1-comparison-long-essay)
- [Classical architectural elements in Renaissance buildings](/ap-art-history/frq-practice?id=69e13fc7dd50deea07bcf996&type=frq-1-comparison-long-essay)
- [Text and image in religious art](/ap-art-history/frq-practice?id=69e13fcbdd50deea07bcf99e&type=frq-1-comparison-long-essay)
- [Private devotional artworks and visual design strategies](/ap-art-history/frq-practice?id=69e13fcfdd50deea07bcf9a3&type=frq-1-comparison-long-essay)
- [Architectural patronage displaying wealth and power](/ap-art-history/frq-practice?id=69e13fd7dd50deea07bcf9a7&type=frq-1-comparison-long-essay)
- [Sacred figures depicted across Byzantine and comparative art traditions](/ap-art-history/frq-practice?id=69e13fe3dd50deea07bcf9bb&type=frq-1-comparison-long-essay)
- [Sacred figures across artistic traditions and periods](/ap-art-history/frq-practice?id=69e13fe4dd50deea07bcf9bc&type=frq-1-comparison-long-essay)
- [Female deity depiction across artistic traditions](/ap-art-history/frq-practice?id=69e13fe5dd50deea07bcf9bd&type=frq-1-comparison-long-essay)
- [Religious narrative depiction across artistic traditions](/ap-art-history/frq-practice?id=69e13febdd50deea07bcf9c9&type=frq-1-comparison-long-essay)
- [Idealized human form across artistic traditions and periods](/ap-art-history/frq-practice?id=69e13feedd50deea07bcf9cf&type=frq-1-comparison-long-essay)
- [Religious narrative composition and central figure emphasis](/ap-art-history/frq-practice?id=69e13fefdd50deea07bcf9d0&type=frq-1-comparison-long-essay)
- [Artistic representations of human suffering](/ap-art-history/frq-practice?id=69e13ff3dd50deea07bcf9d8&type=frq-1-comparison-long-essay)
- [Artistic depiction of grief and mourning](/ap-art-history/frq-practice?id=69e13ff4dd50deea07bcf9d9&type=frq-1-comparison-long-essay)
- [Artistic representation of intellectual and philosophical ideals](/ap-art-history/frq-practice?id=69e13ff7dd50deea07bcf9da&type=frq-1-comparison-long-essay)
- [Religious allegory through visual imagery comparison](/ap-art-history/frq-practice?id=69e13fffdd50deea07bcf9e3&type=frq-1-comparison-long-essay)
- [Idealized female figures across artistic traditions](/ap-art-history/frq-practice?id=69e1400bdd50deea07bcf9f9&type=frq-1-comparison-long-essay)
- [Visual narratives recording historical events](/ap-art-history/frq-practice?id=69e14010dd50deea07bcfa01&type=frq-1-comparison-long-essay)
- [Light as divine presence in artworks](/ap-art-history/frq-practice?id=69e14010dd50deea07bcfa02&type=frq-1-comparison-long-essay)
- [Human activity within natural landscapes](/ap-art-history/frq-practice?id=69e14011dd50deea07bcfa03&type=frq-1-comparison-long-essay)
- [Sacred spaces expressing political and imperial authority](/ap-art-history/frq-practice?id=69e14015dd50deea07bcfa0b&type=frq-1-comparison-long-essay)
- [Self-portraiture and artistic identity representation](/ap-art-history/frq-practice?id=69e1401add50deea07bcfa13&type=frq-1-comparison-long-essay)
- [Religious architecture and spiritual experience design](/ap-art-history/frq-practice?id=69e1401ddd50deea07bcfa14&type=frq-1-comparison-long-essay)
- [Religious art and architectural devotional inspiration](/ap-art-history/frq-practice?id=69e14023dd50deea07bcfa17&type=frq-1-comparison-long-essay)
- [Artistic depictions of spiritual and religious experiences](/ap-art-history/frq-practice?id=69e14024dd50deea07bcfa1d&type=frq-1-comparison-long-essay)
- [Architectural structures projecting political power](/ap-art-history/frq-practice?id=69e14036dd50deea07bcfa2a&type=frq-1-comparison-long-essay)
- [Moral and spiritual messages in paintings](/ap-art-history/frq-practice?id=69e14036dd50deea07bcfa2b&type=frq-1-comparison-long-essay)
- [Divine figures elevating ruler status in art](/ap-art-history/frq-practice?id=69e1403bdd50deea07bcfa34&type=frq-1-comparison-long-essay)
- [Cultural syncretism in religious artwork](/ap-art-history/frq-practice?id=69e14042dd50deea07bcfa46&type=frq-1-comparison-long-essay)
- [Visual depiction of colonial social hierarchy](/ap-art-history/frq-practice?id=69e14044dd50deea07bcfa47&type=frq-1-comparison-long-essay)
- [Cultural syncretism in colonial visual art](/ap-art-history/frq-practice?id=69e14054dd50deea07bcfa54&type=frq-1-comparison-long-essay)
- [Artistic social commentary across time periods](/ap-art-history/frq-practice?id=69e14059dd50deea07bcfa58&type=frq-1-comparison-long-essay)
- [Knowledge transmission through art and science](/ap-art-history/frq-practice?id=69e14061dd50deea07bcfa65&type=frq-1-comparison-long-essay)
- [Multicultural artistic traditions in decorative screens](/ap-art-history/frq-practice?id=69e14063dd50deea07bcfa66&type=frq-1-comparison-long-essay)
- [Royal and elite figure representation across artworks](/ap-art-history/frq-practice?id=69e14065dd50deea07bcfa67&type=frq-1-comparison-long-essay)
- [Portraiture conveying status and identity through attributes](/ap-art-history/frq-practice?id=69e14068dd50deea07bcfa6b&type=frq-1-comparison-long-essay)
- [Artistic depictions of romantic relationships](/ap-art-history/frq-practice?id=69e14069dd50deea07bcfa6c&type=frq-1-comparison-long-essay)
- [Symbolic meaning in flora and fauna depiction](/ap-art-history/frq-practice?id=69e1408bdd50deea07bcfa99&type=frq-1-comparison-long-essay)

### Unit 4: Later Europe and Americas, 1750-1980 CE (50)
- [Political and moral messaging in visual art](/ap-art-history/frq-practice?id=69e1406add50deea07bcfa77&type=frq-1-comparison-long-essay)
- [Artistic depictions of leadership and authority](/ap-art-history/frq-practice?id=69e14075dd50deea07bcfa7c&type=frq-1-comparison-long-essay)
- [Architecture embodying political and philosophical ideals](/ap-art-history/frq-practice?id=69e14075dd50deea07bcfa7d&type=frq-1-comparison-long-essay)
- [Self-portraiture and artist identity representation](/ap-art-history/frq-practice?id=69e14080dd50deea07bcfa88&type=frq-1-comparison-long-essay)
- [War's visual representation across artistic traditions](/ap-art-history/frq-practice?id=69e14084dd50deea07bcfa91&type=frq-1-comparison-long-essay)
- [Visual representation of political and social conflict](/ap-art-history/frq-practice?id=69e14089dd50deea07bcfa98&type=frq-1-comparison-long-essay)
- [Idealized female figures in neoclassical and romantic art](/ap-art-history/frq-practice?id=69e1408fdd50deea07bcfaa6&type=frq-1-comparison-long-essay)
- [Still life composition and artistic representation](/ap-art-history/frq-practice?id=69e14094dd50deea07bcfaac&type=frq-1-comparison-long-essay)
- [Humanity's relationship with natural landscapes](/ap-art-history/frq-practice?id=69e14094dd50deea07bcfaad&type=frq-1-comparison-long-essay)
- [Social or political messaging in visual art](/ap-art-history/frq-practice?id=69e14097dd50deea07bcfab3&type=frq-1-comparison-long-essay)
- [Government architecture expressing political power](/ap-art-history/frq-practice?id=69e1409add50deea07bcfab4&type=frq-1-comparison-long-essay)
- [Art and photography as social critique tools](/ap-art-history/frq-practice?id=69e140a9dd50deea07bcfac3&type=frq-1-comparison-long-essay)
- [Female subject depiction across artistic traditions](/ap-art-history/frq-practice?id=69e140addd50deea07bcfac8&type=frq-1-comparison-long-essay)
- [Artistic depiction of motion across time periods](/ap-art-history/frq-practice?id=69e140b0dd50deea07bcfad4&type=frq-1-comparison-long-essay)
- [Natural landscapes and national identity representation](/ap-art-history/frq-practice?id=69e140b6dd50deea07bcfadc&type=frq-1-comparison-long-essay)
- [Artistic depiction of intense psychological states](/ap-art-history/frq-practice?id=69e140b8dd50deea07bcfadd&type=frq-1-comparison-long-essay)
- [Van Gogh's Starry Night and landscape artistic depictions](/ap-art-history/frq-practice?id=69e140badd50deea07bcfae3&type=frq-1-comparison-long-essay)
- [Commemorative art across historical periods](/ap-art-history/frq-practice?id=69e140bddd50deea07bcfae4&type=frq-1-comparison-long-essay)
- [Natural landscape depiction across artistic periods](/ap-art-history/frq-practice?id=69e140d3dd50deea07bcfaf8&type=frq-1-comparison-long-essay)
- [Innovative architectural materials and construction techniques](/ap-art-history/frq-practice?id=69e140d6dd50deea07bcfaf9&type=frq-1-comparison-long-essay)
- [Social class representation in early twentieth-century art](/ap-art-history/frq-practice?id=69e140dddd50deea07bcfb08&type=frq-1-comparison-long-essay)
- [Cross-cultural artistic influence in visual art](/ap-art-history/frq-practice?id=69e140dfdd50deea07bcfb09&type=frq-1-comparison-long-essay)
- [Female figure representation in modernist art](/ap-art-history/frq-practice?id=69e140dfdd50deea07bcfb0a&type=frq-1-comparison-long-essay)
- [Abstraction and simplification of human form](/ap-art-history/frq-practice?id=69e140e1dd50deea07bcfb0b&type=frq-1-comparison-long-essay)
- [Abstraction and fragmentation in early modernist art](/ap-art-history/frq-practice?id=69e140f4dd50deea07bcfb1e&type=frq-1-comparison-long-essay)
- [Color conveying mood and meaning in paintings](/ap-art-history/frq-practice?id=69e140f9dd50deea07bcfb24&type=frq-1-comparison-long-essay)
- [Abstract art expressing spiritual concepts](/ap-art-history/frq-practice?id=69e14101dd50deea07bcfb36&type=frq-1-comparison-long-essay)
- [Artist self-portraits expressing identity and psychology](/ap-art-history/frq-practice?id=69e14103dd50deea07bcfb37&type=frq-1-comparison-long-essay)
- [Modernist residential architecture and design philosophy](/ap-art-history/frq-practice?id=69e14103dd50deea07bcfb38&type=frq-1-comparison-long-essay)
- [Philosophical beliefs on human existence and mortality](/ap-art-history/frq-practice?id=69e14105dd50deea07bcfb45&type=frq-1-comparison-long-essay)
- [Political propaganda art and visual messaging techniques](/ap-art-history/frq-practice?id=69e1410add50deea07bcfb49&type=frq-1-comparison-long-essay)
- [Abstraction conveying meaning through visual elements](/ap-art-history/frq-practice?id=69e1410edd50deea07bcfb4a&type=frq-1-comparison-long-essay)
- [Political violence and artistic commemoration](/ap-art-history/frq-practice?id=69e1410fdd50deea07bcfb4b&type=frq-1-comparison-long-essay)
- [Architecture integrating with natural environments](/ap-art-history/frq-practice?id=69e1411add50deea07bcfb58&type=frq-1-comparison-long-essay)
- [Subversion of everyday objects through unconventional materials](/ap-art-history/frq-practice?id=69e1411bdd50deea07bcfb59&type=frq-1-comparison-long-essay)
- [Unconventional materials challenging traditional art definitions](/ap-art-history/frq-practice?id=69e14125dd50deea07bcfb6c&type=frq-1-comparison-long-essay)
- [Personal and cultural identity in visual art](/ap-art-history/frq-practice?id=69e14127dd50deea07bcfb6d&type=frq-1-comparison-long-essay)
- [Colonialism's visual legacy and cultural identity](/ap-art-history/frq-practice?id=69e14128dd50deea07bcfb76&type=frq-1-comparison-long-essay)
- [Mexican cultural identity and historical narrative](/ap-art-history/frq-practice?id=69e1412bdd50deea07bcfb77&type=frq-1-comparison-long-essay)
- [Female figure representation across artistic traditions](/ap-art-history/frq-practice?id=69e1412fdd50deea07bcfb7c&type=frq-1-comparison-long-essay)
- [Architecture expressing patron power and prestige](/ap-art-history/frq-practice?id=69e14139dd50deea07bcfb88&type=frq-1-comparison-long-essay)
- [Abstraction evoking natural environments through visual art](/ap-art-history/frq-practice?id=69e1413ddd50deea07bcfb8d&type=frq-1-comparison-long-essay)
- [Interactive installations engaging viewer participation](/ap-art-history/frq-practice?id=69e1413fdd50deea07bcfb8e&type=frq-1-comparison-long-essay)
- [Artistic critiques of militarism and consumerism](/ap-art-history/frq-practice?id=69e14147dd50deea07bcfb9d&type=frq-1-comparison-long-essay)
- [Environmental art and landscape transformation](/ap-art-history/frq-practice?id=69e1414bdd50deea07bcfba4&type=frq-1-comparison-long-essay)
- [Social and political commentary in visual art](/ap-art-history/frq-practice?id=69e14150dd50deea07bcfba8&type=frq-1-comparison-long-essay)
- [Portraiture reflecting cultural values and societal ideals](/ap-art-history/frq-practice?id=69e14168dd50deea07bcfbc5&type=frq-1-comparison-long-essay)
- [Architectural conventions challenged through visual and contextual departure](/ap-art-history/frq-practice?id=69e141a6dd50deea07bcfc1d&type=frq-1-comparison-long-essay)
- [Modern life and industrial environments in art](/ap-art-history/frq-practice?id=69e143b30dd1da0c0187f1f3&type=frq-1-comparison-long-essay)
- [Human figures depicting social injustice](/ap-art-history/frq-practice?id=69e14449b81c5059abc99aac&type=frq-1-comparison-long-essay)

### Unit 5: Indigenous Americas, 1000 BCE-1980 CE (14)
- [Sacred architecture and spiritual experience design](/ap-art-history/frq-practice?id=69e14154dd50deea07bcfba9&type=frq-1-comparison-long-essay)
- [Architecture adapted to natural environments](/ap-art-history/frq-practice?id=69e14156dd50deea07bcfbb2&type=frq-1-comparison-long-essay)
- [Political power legitimization through art](/ap-art-history/frq-practice?id=69e14160dd50deea07bcfbbc&type=frq-1-comparison-long-essay)
- [Earthworks and landscape modification across cultures](/ap-art-history/frq-practice?id=69e14163dd50deea07bcfbbd&type=frq-1-comparison-long-essay)
- [Materials conveying ruler power and authority](/ap-art-history/frq-practice?id=69e14171dd50deea07bcfbce&type=frq-1-comparison-long-essay)
- [Architecture integrated with natural environment](/ap-art-history/frq-practice?id=69e14175dd50deea07bcfbd6&type=frq-1-comparison-long-essay)
- [Architectural design demonstrating political power and authority](/ap-art-history/frq-practice?id=69e14177dd50deea07bcfbd7&type=frq-1-comparison-long-essay)
- [Rulers' power and authority in visual art](/ap-art-history/frq-practice?id=69e1417ddd50deea07bcfbe5&type=frq-1-comparison-long-essay)
- [Architecture reflecting cosmological beliefs across cultures](/ap-art-history/frq-practice?id=69e14183dd50deea07bcfbe8&type=frq-1-comparison-long-essay)
- [Cultural exchange in decorative arts](/ap-art-history/frq-practice?id=69e14185dd50deea07bcfbe9&type=frq-1-comparison-long-essay)
- [Ritual masks and ceremonial performance objects](/ap-art-history/frq-practice?id=69e1418bdd50deea07bcfbee&type=frq-1-comparison-long-essay)
- [Artistic preservation of cultural traditions](/ap-art-history/frq-practice?id=69e14197dd50deea07bcfbfe&type=frq-1-comparison-long-essay)
- [Natural world subjects expressing cultural religious beliefs](/ap-art-history/frq-practice?id=69e141a0dd50deea07bcfc13&type=frq-1-comparison-long-essay)
- [Geometric abstraction across cultural artistic traditions](/ap-art-history/frq-practice?id=69e141a4dd50deea07bcfc15&type=frq-1-comparison-long-essay)

### Unit 6: Africa, 1100-1980 CE (14)
- [Architectural power and authority across cultures](/ap-art-history/frq-practice?id=69e14199dd50deea07bcfc09&type=frq-1-comparison-long-essay)
- [Ruler depiction across artistic traditions](/ap-art-history/frq-practice?id=69e141a2dd50deea07bcfc14&type=frq-1-comparison-long-essay)
- [Symbols of royal and political authority](/ap-art-history/frq-practice?id=69e141a5dd50deea07bcfc1c&type=frq-1-comparison-long-essay)
- [Sculptural depictions of ruler power and authority](/ap-art-history/frq-practice?id=69e141a9dd50deea07bcfc1e&type=frq-1-comparison-long-essay)
- [Spiritual power in African and world art objects](/ap-art-history/frq-practice?id=69e141b2dd50deea07bcfc26&type=frq-1-comparison-long-essay)
- [Idealized portraiture across cultures and time periods](/ap-art-history/frq-practice?id=69e141c1dd50deea07bcfc3f&type=frq-1-comparison-long-essay)
- [Idealized female figures across cultures and periods](/ap-art-history/frq-practice?id=69e141c4dd50deea07bcfc41&type=frq-1-comparison-long-essay)
- [Visual methods of recording cultural memory](/ap-art-history/frq-practice?id=69e141c8dd50deea07bcfc48&type=frq-1-comparison-long-essay)
- [Artistic depictions of ruler power and authority](/ap-art-history/frq-practice?id=69e141cadd50deea07bcfc49&type=frq-1-comparison-long-essay)
- [Personal power, status, and achievement representation](/ap-art-history/frq-practice?id=69e141cddd50deea07bcfc4a&type=frq-1-comparison-long-essay)
- [Worn regalia demonstrating power and status](/ap-art-history/frq-practice?id=69e141cddd50deea07bcfc52&type=frq-1-comparison-long-essay)
- [Sacred spaces constructed from local materials and traditions](/ap-art-history/frq-practice?id=69e141d0dd50deea07bcfc53&type=frq-1-comparison-long-essay)
- [Guardian and protector figures across cultures](/ap-art-history/frq-practice?id=69e141dcdd50deea07bcfc61&type=frq-1-comparison-long-essay)
- [Cultural ideals of women across artistic traditions](/ap-art-history/frq-practice?id=69e141dedd50deea07bcfc62&type=frq-1-comparison-long-essay)

### Unit 7: West and Central Asia, 500 BCE-1980 CE (11)
- [Colossal figures inspiring religious awe](/ap-art-history/frq-practice?id=69e141e9dd50deea07bcfc73&type=frq-1-comparison-long-essay)
- [Sacred pilgrimage sites and architectural design accommodation](/ap-art-history/frq-practice?id=69e141eadd50deea07bcfc74&type=frq-1-comparison-long-essay)
- [Religious and political authority through architectural design](/ap-art-history/frq-practice?id=69e141eddd50deea07bcfc7b&type=frq-1-comparison-long-essay)
- [Sacred objects and pilgrimage destinations worldwide](/ap-art-history/frq-practice?id=69e141efdd50deea07bcfc7c&type=frq-1-comparison-long-essay)
- [Architecture integrated into natural environments](/ap-art-history/frq-practice?id=69e141f0dd50deea07bcfc86&type=frq-1-comparison-long-essay)
- [Architectural design facilitating communal worship spaces](/ap-art-history/frq-practice?id=69e141f1dd50deea07bcfc87&type=frq-1-comparison-long-essay)
- [Illuminated manuscripts expressing sacred religious meaning](/ap-art-history/frq-practice?id=69e141f9dd50deea07bcfc8e&type=frq-1-comparison-long-essay)
- [Hunting and warfare depictions across cultures](/ap-art-history/frq-practice?id=69e141ffdd50deea07bcfc94&type=frq-1-comparison-long-essay)
- [Rulers and leaders in visual representation](/ap-art-history/frq-practice?id=69e14205dd50deea07bcfc99&type=frq-1-comparison-long-essay)
- [Textiles and fibers conveying cultural meaning](/ap-art-history/frq-practice?id=69e14215dd50deea07bcfcb6&type=frq-1-comparison-long-essay)
- [Rulers and heroes demonstrating power through visual representation](/ap-art-history/frq-practice?id=69e14216dd50deea07bcfcb7&type=frq-1-comparison-long-essay)

### Unit 8: South, East, and Southeast Asia, 300 BCE-1980 CE (20)
- [Sacred architecture guiding ritual worshipper movement](/ap-art-history/frq-practice?id=69e1420fdd50deea07bcfca9&type=frq-1-comparison-long-essay)
- [Afterlife beliefs in funerary art traditions](/ap-art-history/frq-practice?id=69e14211dd50deea07bcfcb4&type=frq-1-comparison-long-essay)
- [Political power and religious beliefs in art](/ap-art-history/frq-practice?id=69e1421bdd50deea07bcfcbe&type=frq-1-comparison-long-essay)
- [Sacred sites expressing political and religious authority](/ap-art-history/frq-practice?id=69e1421bdd50deea07bcfcbf&type=frq-1-comparison-long-essay)
- [Sacred objects emphasizing religious devotion](/ap-art-history/frq-practice?id=69e1421fdd50deea07bcfcc4&type=frq-1-comparison-long-essay)
- [Sacred architecture guiding worshipper spiritual journeys](/ap-art-history/frq-practice?id=69e14220dd50deea07bcfcc5&type=frq-1-comparison-long-essay)
- [Political power and religious beliefs in architecture](/ap-art-history/frq-practice?id=69e1422bdd50deea07bcfcd3&type=frq-1-comparison-long-essay)
- [Funerary art depicting power and status](/ap-art-history/frq-practice?id=69e14232dd50deea07bcfcdc&type=frq-1-comparison-long-essay)
- [Sacred architecture and ritualistic processional design](/ap-art-history/frq-practice?id=69e14234dd50deea07bcfcdd&type=frq-1-comparison-long-essay)
- [Humans and nature in landscape art](/ap-art-history/frq-practice?id=69e14235dd50deea07bcfce8&type=frq-1-comparison-long-essay)
- [Artistic depictions of historical military conflicts](/ap-art-history/frq-practice?id=69e14239dd50deea07bcfcea&type=frq-1-comparison-long-essay)
- [Portraits depicting social status and authority](/ap-art-history/frq-practice?id=69e14240dd50deea07bcfcfa&type=frq-1-comparison-long-essay)
- [Architectural design expressing political power and authority](/ap-art-history/frq-practice?id=69e14241dd50deea07bcfcfb&type=frq-1-comparison-long-essay)
- [Sacred spaces facilitating spiritual contemplation](/ap-art-history/frq-practice?id=69e14248dd50deea07bcfd00&type=frq-1-comparison-long-essay)
- [Rulers demonstrating power and authority](/ap-art-history/frq-practice?id=69e1424add50deea07bcfd07&type=frq-1-comparison-long-essay)
- [Funerary and memorial architecture across cultures](/ap-art-history/frq-practice?id=69e14256dd50deea07bcfd12&type=frq-1-comparison-long-essay)
- [Humans and nature in artistic representation](/ap-art-history/frq-practice?id=69e1425bdd50deea07bcfd1c&type=frq-1-comparison-long-essay)
- [Artistic depictions of natural flora](/ap-art-history/frq-practice?id=69e1425ddd50deea07bcfd1d&type=frq-1-comparison-long-essay)
- [Artistic depictions of political leader authority and power](/ap-art-history/frq-practice?id=69e14261dd50deea07bcfd27&type=frq-1-comparison-long-essay)
- [Cross-cultural artistic exchange and visual evidence](/ap-art-history/frq-practice?id=69e143d10dd1da0c0187f1f9&type=frq-1-comparison-long-essay)

### Unit 9: The Pacific, 700-1980 ce (11)
- [Ancestor and ruler representation in sculpture](/ap-art-history/frq-practice?id=69e14261dd50deea07bcfd28&type=frq-1-comparison-long-essay)
- [Architectural complexes demonstrating political power authority](/ap-art-history/frq-practice?id=69e14265dd50deea07bcfd32&type=frq-1-comparison-long-essay)
- [Deity representations across cultures and time periods](/ap-art-history/frq-practice?id=69e1426bdd50deea07bcfd37&type=frq-1-comparison-long-essay)
- [Stylized human figures across cultures and time periods](/ap-art-history/frq-practice?id=69e1426bdd50deea07bcfd38&type=frq-1-comparison-long-essay)
- [Regalia and adornment expressing hierarchical power](/ap-art-history/frq-practice?id=69e1426edd50deea07bcfd3d&type=frq-1-comparison-long-essay)
- [Portrait conventions depicting power and authority](/ap-art-history/frq-practice?id=69e14280dd50deea07bcfd4b&type=frq-1-comparison-long-essay)
- [Funerary art across cultures and contexts](/ap-art-history/frq-practice?id=69e14285dd50deea07bcfd56&type=frq-1-comparison-long-essay)
- [Ritual masks: visual design and ceremonial function](/ap-art-history/frq-practice?id=69e14288dd50deea07bcfd5b&type=frq-1-comparison-long-essay)
- [Patterns and motifs expressing cultural identity status](/ap-art-history/frq-practice?id=69e1428bdd50deea07bcfd65&type=frq-1-comparison-long-essay)
- [Textiles and regalia communicating status and cultural identity](/ap-art-history/frq-practice?id=69e14296dd50deea07bcfd6d&type=frq-1-comparison-long-essay)
- [Navigation charts and geographic representation methods](/ap-art-history/frq-practice?id=69e1429fdd50deea07bcfd81&type=frq-1-comparison-long-essay)

### Unit 10: Global Contemporary, 1980 ce to Present (27)
- [Site-specific installations transforming natural environments](/ap-art-history/frq-practice?id=69e1428add50deea07bcfd5c&type=frq-1-comparison-long-essay)
- [Cultural identity expression in visual art](/ap-art-history/frq-practice?id=69e14298dd50deea07bcfd6e&type=frq-1-comparison-long-essay)
- [Adapting traditional artistic practices for cultural expression](/ap-art-history/frq-practice?id=69e142a0dd50deea07bcfd82&type=frq-1-comparison-long-essay)
- [Human figures depicting suffering, vulnerability](/ap-art-history/frq-practice?id=69e142a3dd50deea07bcfd83&type=frq-1-comparison-long-essay)
- [Text and script in artistic composition](/ap-art-history/frq-practice?id=69e142a5dd50deea07bcfd8d&type=frq-1-comparison-long-essay)
- [Pop culture imagery as social commentary](/ap-art-history/frq-practice?id=69e142abdd50deea07bcfd94&type=frq-1-comparison-long-essay)
- [Art challenging traditional cultural narratives and expectations](/ap-art-history/frq-practice?id=69e142addd50deea07bcfd95&type=frq-1-comparison-long-essay)
- [Portraiture exploring constructed identity and representation](/ap-art-history/frq-practice?id=69e142b4dd50deea07bcfda1&type=frq-1-comparison-long-essay)
- [Colonial legacy in visual art](/ap-art-history/frq-practice?id=69e142bbdd50deea07bcfda8&type=frq-1-comparison-long-essay)
- [Abstract representation of natural environments](/ap-art-history/frq-practice?id=69e142bddd50deea07bcfdb0&type=frq-1-comparison-long-essay)
- [Portraiture exploring cultural and political identity](/ap-art-history/frq-practice?id=69e142bfdd50deea07bcfdb1&type=frq-1-comparison-long-essay)
- [Visual representation of cultural identity and gender roles](/ap-art-history/frq-practice?id=69e142c1dd50deea07bcfdb2&type=frq-1-comparison-long-essay)
- [Artistic commemoration of historical conflict and loss](/ap-art-history/frq-practice?id=69e142c5dd50deea07bcfdbb&type=frq-1-comparison-long-essay)
- [National and cultural identity in visual art](/ap-art-history/frq-practice?id=69e142cadd50deea07bcfdc3&type=frq-1-comparison-long-essay)
- [Non-traditional materials conveying cultural and social messages](/ap-art-history/frq-practice?id=69e142d4dd50deea07bcfdc8&type=frq-1-comparison-long-essay)
- [Innovative architectural forms and materials in buildings](/ap-art-history/frq-practice?id=69e142d5dd50deea07bcfdc9&type=frq-1-comparison-long-essay)
- [Artistic reinterpretation across cultural and temporal contexts](/ap-art-history/frq-practice?id=69e142e7dd50deea07bcfde1&type=frq-1-comparison-long-essay)
- [Self-portraiture across cultural and artistic contexts](/ap-art-history/frq-practice?id=69e142e7dd50deea07bcfde2&type=frq-1-comparison-long-essay)
- [Historical narratives and cultural stereotypes in visual art](/ap-art-history/frq-practice?id=69e142ebdd50deea07bcfdeb&type=frq-1-comparison-long-essay)
- [Spiritual and physical transformation in art](/ap-art-history/frq-practice?id=69e142eddd50deea07bcfdec&type=frq-1-comparison-long-essay)
- [Female figures, cultural identity, societal expectations](/ap-art-history/frq-practice?id=69e142eddd50deea07bcfded&type=frq-1-comparison-long-essay)
- [Repurposed materials commenting on cultural identity](/ap-art-history/frq-practice?id=69e142f1dd50deea07bcfdf5&type=frq-1-comparison-long-essay)
- [Innovative architectural form and contemporary spatial design](/ap-art-history/frq-practice?id=69e142f7dd50deea07bcfdfb&type=frq-1-comparison-long-essay)
- [Artistic representation of social and political division](/ap-art-history/frq-practice?id=69e14300dd50deea07bcfdfe&type=frq-1-comparison-long-essay)
- [Artistic commentary on authoritarianism and human rights](/ap-art-history/frq-practice?id=69e1430fdd50deea07bcfe0a&type=frq-1-comparison-long-essay)
- [Female figures challenging traditional cultural narratives](/ap-art-history/frq-practice?id=69e14311dd50deea07bcfe0b&type=frq-1-comparison-long-essay)
- [Dynamic movement and energy in visual art](/ap-art-history/frq-practice?id=69e14313dd50deea07bcfe10&type=frq-1-comparison-long-essay)

## Sample question

**Animal and zoomorphic forms in art**

Image: https://kcbwzropdukwhmmvdylp.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/images/stimuli/ap-art-history-required-009-1776294659469.png
  Alt: The Ambum stone
  Caption: The Ambum stone. Ambum Valley, Enga Province, Papua New Guinea. c. 1500 bce. Greywacke
  Placement: provided-work

The work shown is <em>The Ambum stone</em>, created c. 1500 BCE. The work features an animal or zoomorphic form.

Select and completely identify another work of art that features an animal or zoomorphic form. You may select a work from the list below or any other relevant work.

Describe one visual characteristic of <em>The Ambum stone</em> and one visual characteristic of your selected work.

Using specific visual evidence from <em>The Ambum stone</em> and specific visual evidence from your selected work, explain ONE similarity or difference in how the animal or zoomorphic form is depicted.

Using specific visual evidence from <em>The Ambum stone</em> and specific visual evidence from your selected work, explain ANOTHER similarity or difference in how the animal or zoomorphic form is depicted.

Make a claim that explains one similarity or difference in why the animal or zoomorphic form was depicted.

Support your claim using specific contextual evidence from <em>The Ambum stone</em> and specific contextual evidence from your selected work.

When identifying the work you select, you should try to include all of the following identifiers: title or designation, name of the artist and/or culture of origin, date of creation, and materials. You will earn credit for the identification if you provide at least two accurate identifiers, but you will not be penalized if any additional identifiers you provide are inaccurate. If you select a work from the list below, you must include at least two accurate identifiers beyond those that are given.

Suggested Works:
  - Apollo 11 stones
  - Buk (mask)
  - Camelid sacrum in the shape of a canine

Image URLs (1):
  - https://kcbwzropdukwhmmvdylp.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/images/stimuli/ap-art-history-required-009-1776294659469.png

## Questions

**How many responses can I get scored?**

You can read every question without a plan. Your first scored response is included. A plan unlocks unlimited scoring.

**Which work can I choose for the comparison?**

One from the list in the question or any other relevant work. If you pick from the list, your two identifiers have to go beyond what the question already gives.

**How is the comparison essay different from FRQ 2?**

The comparison essay shows you one work and asks you to compare it with a second. The visual/contextual analysis essay shows no image, so you write about a work from memory.

**Are these real College Board questions?**

No. We wrote them in the AP format, with the same 8-point structure, and wrote scoring guidelines for each one.

**Can I write my answer by hand?**

Yes. Switch the editor to handwrite, write on paper, and add a photo of your page.

## Related

- [Comparison Essay exam guide](/ap-art-history/ap-art-history-exam/ap-art-history-frq-long/study-guide/ap-art-history-frq-long)
- [AP Art History Visual/Contextual Essay practice](/ap-art-history/frqs/visual-contextual-analysis)
- [AP Art History Visual Analysis Essay practice](/ap-art-history/frqs/visual-analysis)
- [AP Art History Contextual Analysis Essay practice](/ap-art-history/frqs/contextual-analysis)
- [AP Art History Attribution Essay practice](/ap-art-history/frqs/attribution)
- [AP Art History Continuity and Change Essay practice](/ap-art-history/frqs/continuity-and-change)
- [AP Art History FRQs](/ap-art-history/frqs)
- Any question by id: the `get_frq` tool on the [Fiveable MCP server](/mcp/docs)

## About This Document

Canonical Fiveable pages are available as Markdown at the same path plus `.md`.

- [llms.txt](https://fiveable.me/llms.txt): index of Fiveable's sections and URL patterns
- [llms-full.txt](https://fiveable.me/llms-full.txt): complete subject and unit listing
- [MCP server](https://fiveable.me/mcp): call Fiveable as tools instead of fetching pages (`https://fiveable.me/api/mcp`)
- [MCP server for AP teachers](https://fiveable.me/mcp/teachers): a teacher's classes, assignments and AP-rubric grading (`https://fiveable.me/api/mcp/teacher`)