Kotoko Bronze Equestrian Figure

The horse’s neck sweeps up and curls back into a spiral scroll, as if the casting could not quite contain it.

The Kotoko metalworkers of the Lake Chad region made small cast horsemen of this kind, many meant to be carried or worn as personal charms. This one was cast in bronze in Chad in the 20th century and stands just over two and a half inches. Ringed bands wrap the horse’s neck at the base. The rider leans forward, both arms extended toward the reins, his tall headdress ribbed in stacked rings. The horse stands on four tapering, pointed legs. Brown patina, warm golden highlights.

Dramatic, and tiny. A fair combination.