Dogon Seated Female Figure

Legs stretched out in a wide V, ankles crossed. She is in no hurry.

The Dogon of Mali made small figures like her, smiths’ work, for personal and protective purposes, and they were often kept close at hand. She is three inches tall and dates to the 20th century. Her hands are clasped beneath her breasts. A textured beaded necklace lies at her collarbone. The face is strongly drawn: large almond eyes, a long nose, a crested coiffure rising above.

The patina is dark and slightly granular. Compact, and entirely sure of herself. Some people simply arrive that way.