Mémoire d’Afrique — Ref. 199
Guardian of knowledge — Dogon, Mali — African tribal art — Ref. 199
Description
This Dogon statue from Mali represents a female figure in a hieratic posture, characterised by a long cylindrical neck, marked shoulders and a stylised hairstyle. The top of the skull has a cavity, possibly intended to receive ritual charges or sacred offerings, a common practice in Dogon art. The frontal posture and elongated arms recall votive statues used in family or community altars, serving as intermediaries with ancestors and protective spirits. Carved in old wood, it has a dry patina and natural wear, testifying to its age and prolonged use. A few visible cracks attest to its age, reinforcing its authenticity and ethnographic value.
Technical details
- Type of piece
- Statue
- Category
- Statues
- Ethnic group
- Dogon
- Country
- Mali
- Materials
- wood
- Dimensions
- H 80 × W 16 × D 17 cm
- Weight
- 4,5 kg
- Estimated dating
- second half 20th c.
- Laboratory test
- Not tested
- Reference
- 199