Maternity statue — Dogon, Mali — African tribal art — Ref. 213

Description

This statue comes from the Dogon people of Mali, recognised for sculptural art deeply linked to religious beliefs and rites of ancestor veneration. This type of sculpture was used on family or community altars dedicated to protective spirits and ancestors. Maternity here symbolises fecundity, the transmission of knowledge and spiritual protection.

The representation of a woman carrying a child in her arms refers to fertility and to the fundamental role of the mother in the perpetuation of the lineage. The Dogon give maternal figures a central place in their cosmology, associating them with nurturing divinities.

The statue is carved from hard wood, with a matte patina and natural traces of wear. The features are stylised, with a conical headdress typical of Dogon aesthetics and elongated arms framing the child. The seated posture suggests a protective and meditative figure. Cracks and marks of alteration are visible, attesting to its age.

Estimated dating: early to mid-20th century, based on stylistic comparison with works preserved in museums and private collections.

Technical details

Type of piece

Statue

Category

Statues

Ethnic group

Dogon

Country

Mali

Materials

wood

Dimensions

H 80 × W 13 × D 14 cm

Weight

4,6 kg

Estimated dating

second half 20th c.

Laboratory test

Not tested

Reference

213