Kotoko Figure of 'Medicine' Horse

Two inches of brass. Hold it in your palm and it vanishes, which was rather the point of an amulet.

The Kotoko of Chad cast small figures by the lost-wax method, and carried or wore them for protection. This 20th-century horse stands just over two inches tall on four straight legs. The neck arches strongly. Raised ribbed bands decorate the neck and the saddle area, where three upright forms rise. A small chain link remains at one side.

The patina is dark, giving way to bright golden brass on the high points. In the region, horses long meant power and prestige. A small horse, then, and a large idea.