Small Dogon door — Dogon, Mali — African tribal art — Ref. 143

Description

This miniature Dogon door comes from Mali and measures 17 cm in width, an unusual size compared with more imposing traditional doors. Probably used as a decorative element or to protect a small grain store, it nevertheless preserves Dogon stylistic codes, with carved motifs and a natural patina attesting to use or traditional manufacture.
The Dogon use their doors to symbolise protection and the transmission of founding myths. They are often decorated with figures representing ancestors, spirits or cosmogonic scenes. This piece, although reduced in size, may therefore have had a ritual function or simply a decorative one.
Made from old wood, it shows beautiful wear and traditional nails that reinforce its structure.

Technical details

Type of piece

Mobilier

Category

Traditional furniture

Ethnic group

Dogon

Country

Mali

Materials

wood, iron

Dimensions

H 92 × W 8 × D 17 cm

Weight

3,6 kg

Estimated dating

second half 20th c.

Laboratory test

Not tested

Reference

143