Horseman figurine — Dogon, Mali — African tribal art — Ref. 249

Description

This small sculpture in light wood comes from the Dogon people of Mali, renowned for their stylised art with a strong symbolic dimension. Representing a horseman accompanied by a bovine animal, the scene attests to the high social status of the figure, probably a chief or mythical ancestor. Among the Dogon, horsemen often evoke founding heroes, ancient kings or messengers from the world of spirits. The bovine symbolises abundance, fertility and economic prestige. The stylisation of the face, typical of Dogon aesthetics, confirms this attribution. The piece is carved from light wood with a matte patina, showing traces of use and an old crack on the base. No visible restoration. A small ritual or votive object, likely used on a domestic or funerary altar.

Technical details

Type of piece

Statuette

Category

Statues

Ethnic group

Dogon

Country

Mali

Materials

wood

Dimensions

H 20 × W 11 × D 15 cm

Weight

0,5 kg

Estimated dating

second half 20th c.

Laboratory test

Not tested

Reference

249