Dogon Bronze Equestrian Figure, Based

He throws both arms in the air. No reins, no apology.

The mounted figure is one of the most familiar subjects in Dogon sculpture, associated with status and spiritual authority. This small equestrian is cast in bronze by the Dogon peoples of Mali, 20th century. The rider sits astride a compact, rounded mount reduced almost to abstraction, with a small ear or horn at the front. Long neck, narrow face, pointed chin, all with simple, assured modeling. The dark surface is flecked with green patina, and the whole stands about four inches on its base.

Everything points upward. Take the hint.